Christmas break is an essential time for students to rest, reset, and enjoy meaningful time with family. Like adults, children need this pause for their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. At the same time, long breaks without any reading can lead to a gradual decline in reading stamina and skills, especially for young readers.

Keeping reading habits going doesn’t have to mean worksheets, reading logs, or forced assignments.

Reading during the holidays can, and should, be enjoyable, cozy, and connected to everyday life. Here are fun and engaging ways to keep reading a natural part of your child’s holiday break, without turning it into schoolwork.

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Read the Book, Then Watch the Movie

Choose a book with a movie adaptation and enjoy both together.

Afterwards, ask the following:

• What was the same?
• What was different?
• Which did you like better, and why?

This kind of conversation builds comprehension and critical thinking while still feeling like family fun.

Here’s a list of books/movies to consider:

• The Polar Express – Chris Van Allsburg (https://amzn.to/458ZyXt)
• How the Grinch Stole Christmas! – Dr. Seuss (https://amzn.to/4qeuOfY)
• Matilda – Roald Dahl (https://amzn.to/4pEQRfP)
• Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – Roald Dahl (https://amzn.to/4pLU5yi) 
• Because of Winn-Dixie – Kate DiCamillo (https://amzn.to/4agB6ad) 

These books can be read by your child independently or together as a read-aloud or shared reading (alternating pages or chapters).

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Cozy Reading Time

Create a cozy reading nook at home with:

• Blankets and pillows
• Build a fort
• Soft lighting
• A favorite stuffed animal or snack
• A stack of books nearby
• Play soft, instrumental music in the background
  

When reading feels comforting and inviting, children are more likely to return to it on their own. Again, no pressure, just reading for pure relaxation and enjoyment. 

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Visit the Library

Many local libraries offer:

• Holiday reading programs
• Story times
• Free events and activities during school breaks

Let children explore and choose their own books. Choice plays a significant role in motivation, enthusiasm, and long-term reading habits.

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Read and Cook Together

Reading doesn’t only happen in storybooks.

Try reading:

• Recipes
• Ingredient lists
• Instructions and steps
  

Cooking and baking together build vocabulary, sequencing skills, and comprehension while creating meaningful memories in the kitchen.

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Reading Bingo

A reading bingo card is a fun way to encourage variety and creativity in reading experiences, without tracking minutes or assigning pages.

You can download the LFJ reading bingo card here for FREE: Holiday Break Reading Bingo

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A Reminder

This holiday break and the list above aren’t about pushing academics or “catching up.” Just joyful reading, meaningful conversations, and shared moments that strengthen your child’s relationship with books and with you.

These are the experiences and memories that last far beyond the holiday season.

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We want to hear from you! Which of these ideas will your family try this break? Or, do you have memories of reading, cooking, or cozy family traditions from your own childhood?

I’d love to hear how reading shows up in your holiday traditions!

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