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Books and activities to build background knowledge — from Reading Rockets

collage of images of kids learning through books and hands-on activities

Building Background Knowledge

Children looking at a map.

When kids have lots of experiences to draw on, they have a better chance of making a connection with what they read! Help children build background knowledge this summer with these tips and activities.

Use Summer Fun to Build Background Knowledge

You don't need to have a book in hand to help a child become a better reader. Interesting experiences give kids a broader framework for new information they might encounter in books, and when kids have lots of experiences to draw on, they have a better chance of making a connection with what they read! Help children build background knowledge this summer with these activities.

Building Background Knowledge tip sheet >

Summer Literacy Challenge!

For most parents, it's a challenge to keep kids reading and writing all summer. Suddenly 10 weeks of summer can feel like a very long time! We've got 10 ideas to help make this summer full of fun, creativity, and learning.

Summer Literacy Challenge tip sheet >

Summer Learning, Side-by-Side

Children are full of questions about the world around them, and summer is a perfect time to tap into children's interests. Here are some ways to start a journey of discovery together.

Summer Learning tip sheet >

Making Reading Relevant: Read, Learn, and Do!

Every time you pair a book with an experience, you are giving children an opportunity to learn more about their world. Below are some suggestions for books and corresponding activities to extend reading experiences.

Read, Learn, and Do tip sheet >

Take a Break, but Bring a Book!

Reading over the summer not only keeps children from losing ground, but actually improves skills for the coming year. Here are some suggestions to keep books in kids' hands over the summer months.

Summer Reading tip sheet >

The Night Before the Museum

Daytrips, vacations, and special outings create special memories and great learning opportunities for children and families. The time leading up to your trip can be filled with excitement and adventure too! Whether you're going to the zoo, the museum, or a state park, below are a few "stops" to make before your visit to help your child get the most out of a family or school educational experience.

Museum Trip tip sheet >