Family Time How-To: Reading Circle

Family time is a precious commodity. Yet, many families do not spend time together as often as they should. There are many ways to spend time without spending money. One of these ways is to create a special reading circle.

Here you will learn how to host a reading circle. This can be done with just members of the family or it can be done with a large group of people. If the latter is chosen, you may want to split people into groups of four of five so that everyone gets a turn. Mix the ages up in each group for diverse reading.

Objective:
This family time event has two objectives. One goal is for families to open communication as well as to grow closer and gain a better understanding of each other. The second goal is deeper reading comprehension. When stories are openly discussed by people of varied ages, it will help aid in greater comprehension.

Materials:
Books for each child's and adult's reading level (or just one or two books that everyone can read together)
An open and comfy area and one center chair or other seating object

Directions:
Everyone should sit in a half circle around the center seating object. The first reader sits in or on the center object and begins to read. Each reader should read for 10 minutes each. Then, the cycle should begin again. Repeat the process until each person has read for at least 20 - 30 minutes.

After each person reads, the listeners and the reader should discuss the book a bit. A good focal point for discussion could be open-ended question, such as "What would have happened if the story ended like this instead of this". Open-ended questions lead to greater and more in-depth discussion. However, keep in mind that you will also want to have basic questions as well, so that everyone understands the story fully.

After the story time ends, it is good to have easy snacks out. These can be set up ahead of time. To keep it simple, try using snacks that are mainly finger food, to avoid a long preparation. That way, they can be prepared quickly and easily and stored in the refrigerator on trays. When you are ready, they can be easily pulled out and placed on a table or counter for easy access. Don't forget napkins and dessert-size paper plates.