Reading together as a family can be more than bedtime stories. There are lots of fun ways to incorporate reading into activities or chores that you’re already doing.  

One simple way is to bring literacy into the kitchen. This summer while you’re grocery shopping and cooking meals, get your kids to help. Not only will their reading improve, but you’ll get a tasty treat at the end of it.  

Three Simple Ways to Read Together in the Kitchen 

Writing is an important part of improving reading skills and vice versa. Grocery lists are short and sweet and won’t feel like a school assignment. Lists are different from chapter or picture books and will show your kids that words can be found everywhere.  

Does your young one need a way to make the list easier to read? Drawing pictures will be fun and will help newer readers associate the written word with the picture. 

2. Follow a Recipe 

Find recipes that you can read out loud together. Take turns reading each step and following the instructions. Or read each sentence together and let your young reader pick out the words they know with confidence. Cooking together will also help with counting and math skills! “How many carrots does this recipe need?” 

You will be helping improve your child’s skills this summer without it feeling like a chore or homework. It’s also a great way to spend quality time together and (hopefully) finish with a delicious meal or snack.  

3. Eat Together