Read Alouds: Strategies for Engagement

Reading picture books in therapy does not mean automatic engagement. While some kids will be fine sitting and listening to a story, many aren't. They need extra and there are some strategies that I use to engage them in the story!

Reading Aloud Basics

• Show excitement for the book!  Let your students know you can wait to read this story to them.
• Read with expression!  Change your voice when the characters speak, make it interesting to listen to you.
• Use gestures and facial expressions.
• Point to specific words or pictures that are important.

Toys

Find plush animals, dolls or toys that can match the characters in the book.  My students love to take turns holding the character during the reading (as long as it’s not distracting).  I found this bear on Amazon and the felt garden is from Etsy. Also, Kohls often has characters from books with their Kohl Cares program.

Graphic Organizers

Depending on your students ability level, have them complete a graphic organizer during the reading.  You can do this together or as a group. I include story maps in all of my no prep resources which can go with a variety of books, depending on the season!

Manipulatives

Have parts of the story copied and printed for students to interact with during the reading. You can find a ton of book companions that will save you time!

Visuals

Visuals can be useful for many things!  You can use them to encourage the appropriate behaviors when reading, to explain word meaning, or to introduce vocabulary.

Games

You can reinforce behavior during a shared reading by promising a fun activity when the book is finished…but still engaging about the book!

What are your favorite strategies for engagement during read alouds?