When reading fiction, ask your child questions to make sure they understand what they are reading and to stimulate their thinking.  This is good at any age, as reading level progresses to harder concepts.  If they respond with “I don’t know,” either change the way you ask the question or tell them how you would answer.

  • Who is the main character?
  • How are you different from or the same as this character?
  • Which character from the story would you like to be friends with and why?
  • What was the setting?
  • What do you think will happen next in the story?
  • What was the problem in the story and how was it solved?
  • What did you like most about this story?
  • Would you choose a different title for the story?
  • What are some new words that you learned?
  • Do you have any questions after reading this story?
  • Do you want to learn about something more from the story?  Where would you look for the information to learn more?
  • Did you like the end? Why or why not?