Literacy News
Tracey James (P-2), Elizabeth Whiting (3-6) - Literacy Leaders
Establishing Strong Reading Habits at Home (Prep – Year 2)
During the following weeks, students in Prep, Year 1 and Year 2 will commence bringing home their red take-home reader bag, home reading log and books.
Reading at home every day is one of the most powerful ways you can support your child’s learning. Regular reading helps to build vocabulary, comprehension, fluency, confidence and a love of books — all essential foundations for future success across all areas of learning.
For our youngest learners in Prep to Year 2, developing positive reading habits early makes a significant difference. Just 10–15 minutes of reading each day can help your child to:
- Learn new words and build vocabulary
- Improve understanding and comprehension
- Develop reading fluency and expression
- Strengthen memory and concentration
- Build confidence as a learner
- Foster a lifelong love of reading
How You Can Support Reading at Home
Establishing a simple, consistent routine is key. Try to:
- Read at the same time each day (e.g. before bed, after snack time after school)
- Find a quiet, comfortable space for reading
- Turn off distractions such as the TV or devices
- Celebrate your child’s efforts and progress
Remember, reading at home should be an enjoyable and positive experience — not a stressful one.
Mix It Up! Read To, Read With and Read Independently
A balanced home reading routine includes:
Reading to your child: Listening to fluent reading helps children hear how reading should sound. It supports comprehension, vocabulary development and a love of storytelling.
Reading with your child: Take turns reading pages or read together. You might read the tricky words while your child reads the rest.
Independent Reading: (especially for Year 2 students)Encourage your child to read familiar or ‘easier’ texts on their own to build fluency and confidence.
Questions You Can Ask While Reading
Talking about the book helps build comprehension skills. You might like to ask:
Before Reading
- What do you think this book might be about?
- What do you notice on the cover?
- Have you read something similar before?
During Reading
- What is happening now?
- Who are the characters?
- What do you think will happen next?
- Does this remind you of anything?
After Reading
- What was your favourite part?
- Why did the character do that?
- What was the problem in the story?
- How was it solved?
- Would you recommend this book to someone else?
By making reading part of your daily routine and keeping it enjoyable, you are helping your child grow into a confident and capable reader. Thank you for your continued support in building strong reading habits at home!
Parent Engagement In Learning Evenings
Parents and carers are invited to come along or log on to these important evenings to learn more about student learning at St John's.
Wednesday 11 March
Prep - onsite 6-7pm
Year 5/6 online 7-8pm
Wednesday 18 March
Year 1 /2 online 6-7pm
Year 3/4 online 7-8pm