Read alouds are such an important part of the day in kindergarten. Even though our goal as teachers is to teach our students how to read themselves, they still need to spend time each day listening to stories being read to them.
Why are read alouds important?
There are so many benefits that come from listening to stories. Read alouds can help children build vocabulary and listening comprehension skills. It is also beneficial, especially for struggling readers, to have fluent reading modeled to them. And the most important reason of all, when children are read books about things they enjoy and can relate to, they develop a love for reading.
What books should I read to my students?
As a teacher, you can read any books to your students. Think about topics they are interested in or things that might be relatable to their age group. In kindergarten, I enjoy reading books that go along with different themes throughout the year.
In my first few years teaching, I remember always being on the lookout for new books or not really being aware of popular books that were out there. Now at this point in my career, I have been able to build my classroom library and have come up with lists of my favorite books for each theme, so that I can share them with others.
Monthly Read Alouds
At the beginning of the school year, I read books all about kindergarten, school expectations, social and emotional skills, and building a classroom community.
In September, I read books all about apples and how they grow, what we can make from them, and even Johnny Appleseed. I also like to read books about farms during this time.
In October, I read books all about fall and pumpkins and how they grow. I also read Halloween books at the end of the month.
In November, I start the month by reading all about Election Day and Veteran’s Day. Then, I read books about turkeys and Thanksgiving, as well as being thankful.
In December, I read books about reindeer, elves, and gingerbread men. I read books about Christmas, and include other holidays as well, such as Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.
In January, I start with books about the New Year. I also read books about winter, snow, and snowmen. It’s also a great time to learn about arctic animals. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is also in January, so include books about him as well.
February is a month full of several themes. The month starts with Groundhog Day. My school and many others celebrate the 100th day of school during this month. I read books about Valentine’s Day and President’s Day. And February is also Dental Health Month, so I include books about teeth.
In March, I read books all about rainbows, unicorns, leprechauns, and St. Patrick’s Day. It is also a great month to read books all about weather.
In April, I read books about April Fool’s Day and spring. Most of the time, Easter falls in April, so I include books about that. Earth Day is also in April, so I read books about taking care of the Earth and recycling.
Many schools start to wrap up the year in May, but I teach until mid-June. In May, I read books about seeds, plants, and insects. Cinco de Mayo also falls in May.
At the end of the school year, I read books all about the last day, graduation and going to first grade. I also read books about summer, the beach and ocean, camping, and other fun summer activities.
You can find all of my favorite kindergarten read alouds in one place HERE.
