Winter break brings a much-needed pause for students—and a perfect opportunity to keep reading routines going in fun, flexible ways. Whether families are traveling, relaxing at home, or juggling a busy holiday season, small moments of choice reading can spark joy, deepen background knowledge, and help students maintain their reading momentum into the new year.
To support educators, students, and families, Learning Ally has curated a set of seasonal book suggestions, easy reading activities, and a December reading log that makes independent reading simple and engaging.
1. Explore Our December Book Recommendations
Our December 2025 Newsletter features a special collection of holiday and winter-themed reads—perfect for break-time exploration. The curated list includes:
- Warm, cozy seasonal stories
- Books featuring winter traditions
- Stories that celebrate a range of holidays and cultural perspectives
- A mix of fantasy, nonfiction, and feel-good chapter books
These titles give students lots of choice and allow them to pick books that match their interests, reading goals, and cultural celebrations.
Access the full list here: December 2025 Newsletter – Learning Ally
2. Use the December Reading Log for Choice Reading
The newsletter also includes a December reading log designed for students to use independently or with families. It supports:
- Short, consistent daily reading
- Reader reflection and goal setting
- Choice reading aligned with student interests
- Gentle accountability without pressure
This is a simple tool families can print or use digitally—especially helpful during this season of travel and irregular schedules.
3. Celebrate Winter Curiosity and Seasonal Learning
If you want to offer students something engaging to pair with their choice reading, winter-themed nonfiction is a great option. Titles that explore:
- Winter weather and wildlife
- Seasonal traditions
- Facts about holidays celebrated around the world
…help build background knowledge while keeping reading fun and accessible.
Wonderful Winter : All Kinds of Winter Facts and Fun
Trivia books are ideal during the break because students can read them in short bursts or share interesting sections with family and friends.
4. Make Reading Part of Winter Traditions
Encourage families to incorporate reading into small daily rituals:
- Read a chapter aloud during hot chocolate time
- Take an audiobook on a winter walk
- Pair reading with decorating, baking, or crafting
- Create a “holiday book swap” among siblings or friends
- Listen to a story during long drives or flights
Audiobooks are especially powerful during break because they reduce barriers and give all students access to rich vocabulary, story structure, and complex text—even when routines are disrupted.
5. Keep It Light and Fun
Winter break reading should feel joyful, and not like schoolwork. Remind students:
- All reading counts
- Re-reading favorite books is encouraged
- Audiobooks are a great way to relax
- It’s okay to start new books and sample different genres
- Reading can happen anywhere—inside, outside, or on the go
The goal is to build a bridge into January, keeping their reading confidence high as they return to class.
Help Students Start the New Year Strong
A small amount of reading over break can make a big difference in:
- Vocabulary gains
- Comprehension
- Fluency and stamina
- Background knowledge
- Confidence and reading identity
Share these ideas with educators and families, print a few reading logs for students to take home, and encourage them to explore winter reading in ways that fit their lives and interests.