Literacy

Mrs. Gray’s Christmas Gift Suggestions to Promote Literacy

As Christmas lists are being written and the shopping begins, I thought I would offer a few festive gift ideas to help keep your children reading, talking, writing and thinking over the holidays.

Here are 10 Christmas gift suggestions that are a fun way to promote literacy and family connection at home throughout the holidays. I’ve included a brief note about how each item supports early reading, writing or language skills. Enjoy building literacy into your celebrations this year!

1. Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping — Craig Silvey & Sara Acton (Ages 8–12)

Runt remains one of my favourite children’s books — such a heart-warming story full of rich vocabulary, humour and adventure. I can't wait to read this sequel which has recently been released.

2. Basics to Brilliance Kids — Donna Hay (Ages 6+)

Because I love cooking (and especially baking!), I can’t resist including this one. Cooking together builds reading comprehension, sequencing and real-world vocabulary, and you end up with something delicious at the end!

3. A Blank Journal and Fun Writing Materials (Ages 5–12)

A beautiful notebook paired with coloured pens, fineliners or a lettering stencil book can spark holiday writing — diaries, lists, letters, creative pieces — you name it.

4. Magnetic Letters + Mini Whiteboard (Ages 4–8)

Perfect for building words, practising spelling patterns and exploring phonics in a hands-on, playful way.

5. ThinkFun Zingo! (Ages 4–8)

A fast-paced matching game that strengthens vocabulary, visual recognition and early reading patterns. Great fun for siblings.

6. Tapple (Ages 7+)

A lively word game that encourages quick thinking, flexible language skills and fast word retrieval — great for family play.

7. Emily Brown Books — Cressida Cowell (Ages 5–9)

A charming series that blends imagination, humour and beautiful storytelling. Wonderful for shared reading and building expressive vocabulary.

8. Hedbanz Game (Ages 6+)

Players ask yes/no questions to guess the picture on their headband — an excellent way to build oral language, questioning skills and descriptive vocabulary.

9. Children’s Crossword Puzzle Book (Ages 7–12)

Crosswords are brilliant for strengthening vocabulary, spelling and general knowledge — a great quiet-time activity.

10. Talking Point: Family Conversation Cards (Ages 5+)

Simple conversation starters that spark meaningful discussions. A lovely way to build oral language, expressive vocabulary and confidence in speaking.

Good luck with your Christmas shopping and wishing you all a joyful Christmas and happy holidays with plenty of time to read, chat and play together.

Rachel Gray

Literacy Leader