1st Grade Reading Activities
First grade is a year of firsts: your child's first full day of school, the first time she'll write a small story herself, and the first time she'll read a complete book cover to cover. We've got dozens of wacky reading and math activities, cool science experiments, and indoor and outdoor games to keep the learning fun.
Play the Consonant Blend Scavenger Hunt
Combine your child's love for scavenger hunts with their budding reading skills to create a fun game that's perfect for everything from birthday parties to rainy days at home.
It's All Natural! A Materials Scavenger Hunt
For literal-minded first graders, it's a stretch to understand that so much that we use day to day came from something in nature. Here's a way to make that connection - and encourage a young environmentalist, too.
Valentine Party Blower Messages!
Here's a hilarious alternative to those sugary conversation hearts...and a way to keep building first grade literacy skills while you're at it!
Make a Santa "Wish List" Holder
This fun holiday activity will help your first grader collect a list of her Christmas wishes … and without realizing it, she’ll also get extra practice in reading and writing!
Make a Valentine Lollypop Greeting
Sure, you can go out and buy a box of Valentine cards--but for a special message try this simple craft activity to make someone's day.
Write Pen Pal Postcards
First graders need to read, read, read and write, write, write! Here is a way to cover both, and keep in touch with a faraway friend or relative while you're at it.
Leaf Rubbing Gift Cards
Combine science with reading and art to help your first grader create an attractive holiday gift for a beloved friend or relative.
Go Sight Word "Island Hopping"!
All you need is chalk and some pavement to set up this silly, fun, and practical game that reinforces those all-important first grade sight words.
Make a "Handy" Thankgiving Wreath
First grade social science curriculum includes lessons on our Thanksgiving holiday, but there's no place like home to make it come alive. Here's an activity that expresses thanks while sneaking in some reading and writing practice, too.
Make an ABC Nature Book
Take a nature walk in your backyard or local park to find one object for every letter of the alphabet. Your child will be loving the outdoors while practicing her science, reading, and writing skills.
