Maintaining Reading Development Over the Holidays

It’s that time of the year again! As the holidays creep up on us, as does the decline in student motivation, and hence, the initiative to read. It’s quite natural for students to read less, spend more time with their families and friends, and lose some of the momentum they had when it comes to reading development, but it doesn't have to be that way! With the right supplemental tools in place, students have the ability to build off of the skills they’ve learned throughout the school year, maintain their love of reading, and utilize high-interest texts to bond with their families simultaneously.

Within our award-winning product,  Raz-Plus, you will find a plethora of texts to keep students engaged all while learning about holidays around the world outside of the one(s) you are currently celebrating. Take a look at this list of recommended texts that have the power to keep students reading and learning no matter what time of the year it is.

Holidays Around the World

Genre: Informational (nonfiction)
Book level: Level T (grade 3)

People around the world express themselves most joyfully through their holidays, which can look different depending on the holiday and geographical region. This book takes a deep dive into the many major holidays that take place from November through March- one of the busiest holiday seasons. As students read this book, they will be exposed to and learn from sensitive text and photographs depicting how kids similar to them celebrate holidays such as Hanukkah, Ramadan, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Chinese New Year, Holi, and the international celebration of the new year. As your student embarks on their holiday break, take a moment to read this book with them to gain perspective about holidays around the world.

Winter Holidays

Genre: Poetry (nonfiction)
Book level: Level R (grade 3)

As temperatures get colder and students spend more time inside, it’s always nice to curl up with a good book! Check out Winter Holidays, a tribute to eight holidays celebrated by people around the world during the winter season. This book will introduce students to some of the customs and traditions of each holiday by way of short poems, photographs, and illustrations to support the text.

World Holidays

Genre: Informational (nonfiction)
Book level: Level L (grade 2)

Our world is filled with rich traditions that are often celebrated during holidays all over the world. Oftentimes, these celebrations include special foods, playing games, and telling stories that withstand the test of time. In this informational text, students learn about seven holidays from around the world and how each one is celebrated.

No matter the time of year, students can continue to refine their reading skills and maintain their motivation to read. As you and your family settle in this holiday season, consider seeking out high-interest texts such as those included in Raz-Plus to read with your student, allowing you to bond and help them on their reading journey.