Congrats, you are going to be a guest reader in your child\u2019s classroom! While this is such an exciting opportunity to make a special memory with your child and their classmates, it can also feel a bit intimidating. Do not fear! I\u2019m here to help guide you through having the best guest reading experience possible with a few tips and book recommendations packed with kid appeal!<\/p>\n
1. Choose a book you feel comfortable with.<\/strong> 2. Bring a back-up or two.<\/strong> 3. Preview the book first.<\/strong> 4. Know some classroom management tools ahead of time.<\/strong> 5. Read with expression.<\/strong> 6. Show the pictures.<\/strong> 7. Have fun!<\/strong> As for book recommendations, below is a list of tried-and-true favorites that I\u2019ve found to be big hits with children. With stories full of imagination, comical situations, or inspirational true tales, there is a little something here for everyone. <\/p>\n no no 9780763662295 Sam and Dave Dig a Hole<\/i> by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen <\/p>\n This award-winning book is a visual storytelling masterpiece. It is almost impossible not to react while watching two friends narrowly miss bigger and bigger gems as they dig in their backyard. Be sure to point out the differences where Sam and Dave start and end for an interesting discussion! <\/p>\n 9780525555094 Fauja Singh Keeps Going<\/i> by Simran Jeet Singh, illustrated by Baljinder Kaur <\/p>\n Children will be amazed by the remarkable Fauja Singh who overcame a childhood disability to set world records in running. I\u2019m still flabbergasted that he ran a marathon at the age of 100!<\/p>\n 9780593350669 How to Talk Like a Bear<\/i> by Charlie Grandy, illustrated by Alex G. Griffiths <\/p>\n Prepare for giggles while reading this hilarious new interactive book that encourages children to roar like a bear at varying volume levels. <\/p>\n 9780593568859 Joan Procter, Dragon Doctor<\/i> by Patricia Valdez, illustrated by Felicita Sala <\/p>\n The story of how a young girl named Joan Procter pursued her passion for reptiles to become a renown expert in Komodo dragons and the first female curator for reptiles at the British Museum is utterly fascinating. <\/p>\n 9780525552918 If I Built a School<\/i> by Chris Van Dusen <\/p>\n With an imagination bigger than life, Jack shares his dreams of designing his own school. This entertaining tale is packed with kid appeal and will inspire fun conversations about what children will want to include in their own inventive schools. <\/p>\n 9780399255144 The Three Ninja Pigs<\/i> by Corey Rosen Schwartz, illustrated by Dan Santat <\/p>\n Filled with funny puns, this action-packed fractured fairy tale puts an exciting new spin on an old classic. When an intimidating wolf comes knocking on their door, three pigs train at their local dojo, but it is only the hardworking sister who can save the day. <\/p>\n 9780593563229 Ice Cream Man<\/i> by Glenda Armand and Kim Freeman, illustrated by Keith Mallett <\/p>\n This entertaining picture book biography shares how chef Augustus Jackson not only achieved his dream of cooking for the President of the United States, but also tells the story of how he went on to develop new ice cream flavors that we still enjoy today!<\/p>\n 9781682630594 Madeline Finn and the Library Dog<\/i> by Lisa Papp <\/p>\n This sweet and tender story stars Madeline Finn, a struggling reader who ultimately finds success and confidence after reading to a dog at a library program. Both relatable and heartfelt, this adorable story will strike a chord with many. <\/p>\n 9781368084116 Hey, Bruce!<\/i> by Ryan T. Higgins <\/p>\n
\nPicking one of your child\u2019s favorites can be a great decision unless they love super silly books and that\u2019s not your style. If you are not into doing funny voices and prefer something more low-key, don\u2019t be afraid to try a nonfiction picture book or biography. Kids love learning about new facts!<\/p>\n
\nDepending on the amount of time you have to read and the length of the book, you may finish your book quickly and have time for another. Most students love a bonus book. <\/p>\n
\nReading through the story ahead of time will not only help you feel more comfortable and know when to pause for reactions, it will also help avoid any unwanted surprises.<\/p>\n
\nIf the students become excited and begin yelling out or talking loudly, speak in a softer voice, so that they have to quiet down to hear you. If another student comments that they have read the book before, encourage them to look for a new detail this time.<\/p>\n
\nNo one wants to listen to a robot reading. Bring the story alive with your voice making sure to change your tone depending on what is happening in the story. If you feel comfortable, use different voices for the characters. The sillier the better.<\/p>\n
\nThis may seem obvious, but can also be overlooked in the moment. Seeing the illustrations are critical when reading a picture book, so it may be helpful to practice holding the book up and reading from it at home to ensure you feel at ease showing the pictures while reading aloud. <\/p>\n
\nIt is such a treat for your child to have you in their classroom. If you relax and have a good time, the students will too. All that really matters to your child is that you are there. Take a deep breath and enjoy the special moment. <\/p>\n