There are many excellent children’s books that students can engage with over the school holidays.

The Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Book of the Year Awards 2015 is a good starting point for recommendations, or try their previous award winners.

When parents are selecting a book, the most important advice is to choose one that will generate enthusiasm for and an interest in reading, leaving the student with a feeling of achievement and motivated to read another book.

When advising parents:

• ensure the book is at a recreational reading level for the student (5 or more words on a page that the reader is unsure of or does not know indicates it is too difficult)
• identify a suitable genre, theme or topic that is interesting to the reader
• suggest books where there are other books by that author. This will make finding the next book easier
• speak to the school or local librarian. They are experts in children’s literature and will be able to make recommendations specific to each child. They also know the most current popular books.

Supporting your Child in Learning to Read on the BOSTES website provides information and suggestions for parents when they are reading with their children at home.

For more information, contact:
Peter Lee
Inspector, Primary Education
peter.lee@bostes.nsw.edu.au
(02) 9367 8191