March is Literacy Month in Tennessee, and it is a great reminder that reading matters at every age. Strong reading skills help students succeed not only in English class, but in science, social studies, math, and beyond. More importantly, reading builds imagination, confidence, and critical thinking that lasts a lifetime.
In Roane County Schools, educators and families are celebrating Literacy Month by encouraging reading at home and at school.
The good news? Families make a powerful difference. You do not have to be a teacher to help your child grow as a reader. Small, consistent habits at home can have a big impact.
Tips for Reading at Home By Age
Preschool Ages 3 to 5
Read aloud every day, even the same book over and over.
Point to the words as you read so children see that print carries meaning.
Ask simple questions such as What do you think will happen next? or How is the character feeling?
Sing songs and nursery rhymes to build sound awareness.
Let your child “read” the pictures and tell the story in their own words.
Early Elementary Grades K to 2
Continue reading aloud, even as your child begins reading independently.
Practice letter sounds and simple sight words during everyday routines.
Take turns reading pages.
Celebrate effort, not just accuracy.
Talk about the story. Who are the characters? What was the problem? How was it solved?
Upper Elementary Grades 3 to 5
Encourage 20 to 30 minutes of independent reading daily.
Let your child choose books that match their interests.
Discuss what they are reading and ask open-ended questions such as Why do you think the character made that choice?
Connect reading to real life. Look up information together about topics they are curious about.
Model reading by letting your child see you read.
Middle and High School
Keep conversations going about books, articles, or news stories.
Encourage reading beyond assigned schoolwork, including novels, biographies, sports articles, and graphic novels.
Discuss vocabulary words and their meanings in context.
Support note-taking or summarizing skills for longer texts.
Simple Ways to Make Reading Part of Everyday Life
Keep books visible and accessible at home.
Visit your local library regularly.
Limit distractions during reading time.
Create a comfortable reading space.
Talk often. Conversation builds vocabulary and comprehension.
Literacy is more than learning to read. It is learning to understand, question, and think deeply. During Literacy Month, Roane County Schools encourages families and schools to work together to help every child become a confident reader.
Just 15 to 20 minutes of reading each day can make a lasting difference.