10 Simple and Fun Ways Families Can Boost Literacy at Home

In celebration of International Literacy Day, Primary Times offers fun, at-home activities to help families support children’s literacy development.

As families settle back into school routines, September brings more than just new timetables and packed lunches – it also marks International Literacy Day on 8th September. Established by UNESCO in 1966, it highlights the vital role literacy plays in shaping young minds and creating lifelong opportunities. Literacy is more than just reading and writing in the classroom; it helps children to express their ideas, solve problems, and connect with the world around them. Whether it’s reading bedtime stories, spotting signs on a walk, or writing a birthday card, literacy skills are everywhere – and well worth celebrating!

Create a DIY Alphabet Scrapbook
Let children get crafty with a colourful alphabet scrapbook – cutting, drawing, or sticking pictures for each letter. Ideal for ages 4–7, it builds letter recognition, vocabulary, and fine motor skills through creative play.

Reading Treasure Hunt
Hide clues or simple story prompts around the house leading to a ‘treasure’. Children will love solving each step, practising reading comprehension and problem-solving along the way.

‘Word of the Week’ and Word Wall Display
Pick a new, exciting word to learn each week and display it proudly on a ‘word wall’ once mastered. Suitable for all ages, this simple routine expands vocabulary and encourages word usage in everyday conversations at home.

Write a Letter to a Favourite Fictional Character
Encourage older children to write to a beloved book character. It’s a fun way to practise writing, explore emotions, and think deeply about the stories they love. Bonus: you can ‘reply’ as the character! Perfect for ages 6+.

Story Building Blocks or Cue Cards
Use word or picture cards to create silly and fun stories together. A hit with children of all ages, this boosts creativity, narrative skills and sentence structure – plus lots of giggles guaranteed!

Book Bake-Off
Read a story, then bake a tasty treat or meal inspired by it (like gingerbread men or honey cakes from a favourite tale). Children can follow the recipe to practise reading instructions and then you’ll enjoy the delicious results.

Play Storybook Character Charades
Act out your favourite book characters and have a go at guessing who they are! Perfect for family and friends, this playful activity sharpens memory, comprehension and expressive language skills – all while bringing books to life.

Alphabet Scavenger Hunt
Turn your home or garden into a literacy adventure by finding objects for every letter of the alphabet. This active game strengthens phonics while keeping children moving and entertained.

Postbox Fun
Set up a family postbox and exchange letters, drawings or notes with each other throughout the week. Suitable for all ages, it builds writing confidence and reading fluency in children – plus their joy of finding a new letter never gets old!

Create a Bedtime Book Club
Pick a family read-aloud book and chat about it together at bedtime. Ideal for calmly winding down, let your child share their thoughts, predictions, or favourite parts. It encourages comprehension, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of shared reading.

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