As a team of experienced teachers, we cannot emphasise enough the importance of reading at home with your child from a very young age. Research shows that children who are read to regularly develop stronger vocabulary, better listening skills, greater imagination and a deeper understanding of language. Sharing books together also helps children build confidence, develop a love of stories and see reading as an enjoyable part of everyday life. Even a few minutes of reading each day can make a lasting difference.
What many parents may not realise is that it is important for children to read age-appropriate books. The right books should match a child’s language level, emotional maturity and interests, while still offering a little challenge.
That is why we have created a reading book list for children from preschool right through to Primary 7. This is a working list, and we will continue to add to it as we remember old favourites, come across well-loved classics and discover new gems.
Please be assured that the books we have included are ones we have either read to our own children or shared with pupils within each respective year group in school.
Please note that the book suggestions for preschool children through to Primary 2 are intended to be read to children, rather than for children to read independently.
From Primary 3 to Primary 7, we would encourage children to read the suggested books themselves where possible. However, if your child finds a book challenging, please do not give up on it straight away. Instead, you could try a few supportive approaches, such as reading the first chapter together, taking turns to read a page each, listening to the audiobook alongside the book, or reading the story aloud to your child and discussing it together.
The aim is always to build confidence, enjoyment and a lifelong love of reading.
Happy Reading!
