But it is an especially nice treat if you are a room parent. Most often, room parents are so busy running classroom parties that they get very little time to simply enjoy the kids. A guest reading gig allows a room parent to have some low-key classroom time and really connect with the kids.
Many teachers will schedule a guest reader close to lunch time or dismissal time. My children's teachers like to schedule guest readers immediately after lunch which is perfect for my work-at-home schedule. Since a teacher is present in the classroom, there’s no need to do clearances in most schools. Guest reading usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes of time.
In my children’s school, the teacher sends home a paper at the beginning of the year letting parents know about the guest reader program. Parents can sign up at any time during the year. They can call the school or send a note into the teacher requesting a date.
Tips for Being a Guest Reader
Read the book ahead of time. Make sure the book is appropriate for the grade level, and doesn't take longer than 15 to 20 minutes to read. Stay away from scary books or books dealing with tough subjects.
Talk to the teacher about the book ahead of time to make sure they're in agreement with your choice. Usually, you won’t have an issue even if the kids just read the book in class with the teacher.
Practice reading the book aloud a few times. Don't forget to hold the book as you would hold it in front of a group of kids. Remember you’ll be in front of the kids instead of being surrounded by them as you would be at home.
If the teacher is okay with it, make a fun treat for the kids fitting in with the book's theme.
Be yourself and have fun reading the book. Remember, the kids will be thrilled to see you, especially your son or daughter.
10 Fun Books to Read in the Classroom
I've rounded up a selection of holiday books to read for Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day and spring. All take about 15 to 20 minutes to read, and are suitable for preschool through 2nd grade.
1. The Giving Tree
2. Happy Valentine's Day, Mouse
3. Happy Valentine's Day, Curious George
4. Pete the Cat: Valentine's Day Is Cool
5. The Night Before St. Patrick's Day
6. That's What Leprechauns Do
7. There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Clover
8. St. Patrick's Day
9. In Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb
10. Spring Is Here! (Bear and Mole Story)
Guest Contributor: Barb is a mom of 4 boys and 1 girl who spends her day keeping track of Nerf guns, Legos, stuffed animals, and library books when she isn't writing about the organizing, cooking, crafting, and reading she manages to fit in between the crazy, loud moments. Her idea of quiet time is a trail run in the woods. Barb can be found at A Life in Balance.
