Here at RAR, we can’t think of a better way to kick off a new year than to do it with books.

That’s why we kick off every January with a challenge for your kids– to help them start their new year reading and reading and reading some more… and falling a little more in love with books in the process!

Today we’re sharing all the details of this year’s Read-Aloud Challenge. I’ll answer your questions, let you know how it works, which books “count,” (spoiler alert: you’re the boss!), and what to do if your kids get frustrated along the way.

We’re starting this challenge in January, but you can start it at any time! If you want your kids to read aloud for 25 days and fall more in love with books (and each other) in the process, you’re in the right place.

Ready to join us?

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  • how the challenge will help your family kick off a great reading year and reset your rhythm
  • setting your kiddos up for challenge success (even pre-readers!)
  • answers to your questions about the challenge including what counts and who counts!

I also answer a listener question about whether new families will be lost or “behind” if they start a RAR Premium membership now. Hint: Nope! 🥰

Time stamps:

1:21The best way to kick off a new year
2:48Helping new families navigate Premium
4:52RAR’s winter line-up
9:34WHY a read-aloud challenge?
12:36How to sign up your kids
13:56Reading is its own reward, but … 😉💡 a few fun ideas
16:46Making smaller goals count!
18:53Answers to common questions
21:28You can’t help too much
24:45For developing readers and pre-readers …
25:56Using wordless picture books
28:50Let the Kids Speak

Quote to remember:

You can not help your child too much, so just help them whenever they need it.”

Sarah Mackenzie


Books mentioned in this episode:

Some links are affiliate links

The Boxcar Children Mysteries
The Boxcar Children (The Boxcar Children, No. 1) (The Boxcar Children Mysteries)
Adventures with Waffles
The Book of Mistakes
Before She was Harriet

You’ll also enjoy: