3 Ways Reading with Your Grandchildren Boosts Kindergarten Readiness
Guest Post by Natalie Parmenter, founder of Primary Focus: The Parent’s Guide to Elementary School
Did you know that reading with your grandchildren supports early literacy, emotional growth, and fosters a love for learning? Discover three fun strategies for reading with 3- to 5-year-olds that can strengthen your grandchild’s skills and confidence, making the experience both enjoyable and impactful.
As a kindergarten teacher, I know how early experiences with books prepares children for school success. Reading with your 3- to 5-year-old grandchild isn’t just about having fun—it’s about building skills they’ll use for life.
1. Books Build Essential Learning Skills
Reading together helps your grandchild learn how books work, recognize letters, and understand words. These foundational skills are crucial for kindergarten.
Teacher Tip: Pause during the story to ask, “What do you think will happen next?” or “How does the character feel?” These questions build comprehension.
Suggested Resource: The OK Ready subscription from Scholastic is a fantastic way to find age-appropriate books. Each book comes with a bookmark featuring questions and key skills, making learning easy and fun!
2. Books Teach Grandchildren Social-Emotional Skills
Stories about feelings, friendship, and challenges help kids build empathy and prepare for social interactions in school.
Teacher Tip: After reading, ask, “Have you ever felt like this character? What did you do?” It helps kids express themselves.
Suggested Books:
The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn – A comforting story for children nervous about separation.
Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud – A simple lesson on kindness and empathy.
3. Books Create a Love of Learning
When you make reading fun, your grandchild learns that books are a source of joy and discovery. This excitement boosts their confidence and curiosity.
Expand their interests with books on topics like math, animals, or history. For example, counting books or science stories show that learning happens everywhere.
Teacher Tip: Let your grandchild pick the books! OK Ready offers options on topics kids love, making it easy to spark their curiosity.
A Final Thought from a Teacher
Grandparents have a special role in preparing children for kindergarten. Your time reading together strengthens bonds, builds skills, and creates lasting memories.
Whether it’s their favorite book for the 20th time or a brand-new story, your effort makes a difference.
Suggested Resource: Make story time simple with OK Ready by Scholastic, where curated books and helpful resources bring reading to life.
Natalie Parmenter is the founder of Primary Focus: The Parent’s Guide to Elementary School, a resource hub for parents. Through her newsletter, YouTube channel, and educational content, Natalie empowers parents with tools and strategies to support their child’s success in school. A former elementary teacher with a decade of experience—primarily in kindergarten—Natalie is passionate about making learning approachable and joyful. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and two cats.
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