We are right in the middle of the summer break! Like many parents, you might be looking for ways to keep your youngsters entertained. We all know reading is a great way to wile away the hours. But, it can be hard to know which books for 2nd graders to start with. After all, the goal is to foster a lifelong love of reading. And, to do so while building your kids’ confidence with new words and more complex sentences.
To help you out, we’ve put together a list of our favorite books for 2nd graders. These books will spark their imaginations, get them excited about books, and keep them on track with their reading. This way, they’ll be ready for the new school year when it rolls around.
As we know, getting kids to read can be no picnic. So, we’ve also put together some hints and tips to motivate your child to read this summer. From choosing books that are the right reading level to connecting stories with the real world. With these handy tricks and our list of fantastic second grader books, your child will be reaching for a book in no time!
How do I motivate my child to read?
Getting your child to read is no easy task, especially if they’ve struggled with reading in the past. Or maybe, they just haven’t found books that really spark their interest. We support you on the quest to help your child build a positive relationship with reading. And, to help them find real enjoyment in 2nd grade books. So, we’ve put together some proven techniques that should boost their enthusiasm in no time!
Don’t be afraid to re-read the same book
Everyone has a favourite book they like to revisit. Although we might think it dull to read the same book a hundred times, it isn’t always the case for children. Many children find comfort and confidence in the familiarity of a story they’ve read again and again. This positive association can help build a child’s confidence in reading and a love of books. Also, it helps them improve speed and accuracy for when they do move on to other texts.
Connect reading to the real world
While reading with your child, try to draw associations between the story in the book and your child’s own experiences. If the book is about animals, ask them about their favorite animals and what they like about them. You can also think of follow-up activities related to the book, for example, drawing pictures of animals they like. Or, thinking about which animals they might see at the zoo.
Always bring something to read
Whenever you know you’ll have some waiting to do, bring along something for your child to read. It doesn’t have to be a book–a magazine or comic will also work. Your child will start to realize that there is always time to fit in some reading. Whether at the dentist’s, or sitting on the bus.
Pick age-appropriate books
Finding the right books for second graders to read isn’t easy. Having a good understanding of your child’s reading level will enable you to select books that are appropriate for them. Both in terms of topics and the words they can understand. Make sure to check the age range of the books you are buying for your child. You can also speak to your child’s teacher if you’re not sure what reading level they’re at.
Read together and to each other
Take turns reading with your child to make it a more communal activity. Over time, you can read a little less and allow them to read more. If they have younger siblings, the older child can eventually read to and with them, too.
Allow your child to choose their own books
Although it’s great to give books for second graders to read as gifts, allowing your child to choose their own books means they can dive deeper into subjects that really interest them. It also allows them to feel a sense of autonomy and responsibility.
What books should my second grader read?
Dory Fantasmagory Series by Abby Hanlon
Dory is the energetic youngest sibling of the family. Sadly, her brother and sister won’t let her play with them. So, she keeps herself busy finding monsters around the house, escaping from time-out, and causing general mischief. This story is packed with hilarious illustrations, word balloons, and long and short sentences. For this reason, it is one of the best chapter books for second graders.
Woodward and McTwee by Jonathan Fenske
This illustrated children’s book depicts two very silly tales of the friendship between a bird and a hippopotamus. The stories detail all the silly pranks and practical jokes that Woodward and McTwee like to pull on each other, with hilarious results. This is one of our favorite books for 2nd graders.
If You Come to Earth by Sophie Blackall
Humorous as well as moving, this is a great book for children who are curious about the planet. It is also a call for us all to take better care of it. In addition, the story talks about the beauty and diversity of the people who live on it. If You Come to Earth was inspired by the author’s travels supporting UNICEF and Save the Children.
Charlotte’s Web by E.B White
Published in 1952, this children’s classic still resonates with children and parents today. White’s novel follows the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a spider named Charlotte. Charlotte writes messages using her web in order to persuade the farmer not to send Wilbur to the slaughterhouse. The book is a gentle and magical way to introduce big themes such as change, innocence, and even death to children in ways they can understand and relate to.
Goblin Secrets by William Alexander
Kids are sure to love this action-packed fantasy story. This National Book Award-winning novel covers themes such as love, loss, and family ties. In the book, we follow Rownie as he joins a theatrical troupe of goblins in the hope of finding his older brother, Rowan, who has mysteriously disappeared.
James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl
A children’s classic first published in 1961, James and the Giant Peach is as popular as ever today. Both children and parents alike enjoy this wonderful book. The story follows James, a young orphan, who enters a huge, magical peach. He travels across the world, having surreal and magical adventures with all the garden insects he meets.
The Year of Billy Miller by Kevin Henkes
After a fall over the summer, Billy Miller goes into second grade with a lump on his head. When he overhears the concerns of his mother, Billy begins to worry. What if, because of his accident, he isn’t smart enough for second grade! Now, he believes he will need to do much more in order to succeed. We follow Billy as he overcomes these fears and realizes what a loving and supportive family he has around him. He discovers that despite the challenges he sometimes faces, he will always have people who are there for him.
The Adventures of Harry Stevenson, Guinea Pig Superstar by Ali Pye
Harry Stevenson, is a ginger guinea pig owned by a boy named Billy. One day Billy takes Harry to school for show and tell. However, the day comes with some unexpected surprises – it turns out that Billy’s schoolmate Fergus has brought his pet snake in, too. This is a beautiful, illustrated book for young readers. It contains two sweet and funny stories that are perfect for animal fans. Another one of our top 2nd grade books.
We hope you enjoy our list of top recommended reading for second graders (ages 7-8). School is Easy supports you and your child not only in summer, but throughout the school year. We offer help for english, math, ESL, and more.
Our tutors or professional and friendly, with high qualifications. School is Easy tutoring is the top choice for helping your child be their best in academics and beyond. Contact us today to find out more information.
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