Introduction – ideas to get younger children reading ahead of the 7 Plus
Reading is a key skill and one which is important for children of all ages. However, it can be difficult to fit this into a busy family life. Thankfully, the holiday period provides a perfect time to enjoy some new books, and if you celebrate Christmas as a family, the perfect time to give and receive new books as part of your gifting. For younger children preparing for the 7+ examination which often takes place in January, Christmas or holiday reading is perfect preparation.
“The Polar Express” – Chris Van Allsburg
Chris Van Allsburg’s “The Polar Express” is a modern classic that is suitable for reading aloud as a family. The story follows a young child who undertakes a special train journey to the North Pole, starting on Christmas Eve. It has beautiful illustrations and a story which celebrates the extraordinary, and it is a book which epitomises the spirit of Christmas beautifully. This magical journey also celebrates kindness and goodwill.
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” – Dr Seuss
Our second recommendation is the fantastic and funny Dr. Seuss’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” This is a brilliant story which children may be able to read themselves as it has a carefully constructed rhythmic rhyme and partners this with beautiful illustrations. The story reveals how the grumpy Grinch learns that Christmas is not just about presents. It entertains perfectly and suggests an important moral message about the true spirit of Christmas.
“Father Christmas” – Raymond Briggs
Raymond Briggs’s “Father Christmas” is all about the job and real life of the key figure of Christmas, sometimes known as Santa Claus. Ideally, this would be a book to be read together as a family, sharing the charming illustrations and storytelling. Briggs skilfully describes Santa’s annual routine, which brings pure joy to readers. Highly recommended for those children preparing for the 7 Plus exam in January, and a book about which it would be useful to talk at interview.
“Mog’s Christmas” – Judith Kerr
In “Mog’s Christmas” by Judith Kerr, Mog is confused by Christmas and finds that it disrupts her normal routine, providing for some hilarious and heart-warming moments. This is a story which more able children may be able to read themselves, perhaps with some help from adults. Alongside the beautiful illustrations, this is a perfect book for the holiday period.
“The Jolly Christmas Postman” – Janet and Allan Ahlberg
Janet and Allan Ahlberg’s “The Jolly Christmas Postman” is more than. just a book. This busy text offers a delightfully interactive experience. Following the postman as he delivers Christmas greetings to different characters, the book features real letters which children can read themselves. This book is perfect for reading together as a family, with people in the extended family taking different roles and perhaps providing a dramatic aspect to the experience.
“One Snowy Night” – Nick Butterworth
“One Snowy Night” by Nick Butterworth is a beautiful winter tale about Percy who is a park keeper who offers shelter and protection to animals on one cold winter evening. This is another beautifully illustrated book which has a lovely message about friendship and sharing. The warmth of this book can be shared amongst families so that children can appreciate how to look after others. Again, this would be a good book for children to discuss at a 7 Plus interview.
“The Twelve Days of Christmas” – Britta Teckentrup
Britta Teckentrup’s book “The Twelve Days of Christmas” is a vibrant picture book which brings the classic carol to life, alongside enchanting illustrations. Each page of this book contains a scene which celebrates the Christmas season, and the book has a rhythmic quality which ensures it is a perfect choice for reading aloud as a family.
“Snow Bunny’s Christmas Wish” – Rebecca Harry
Rebecca Harry’s “Snow Bunny’s Christmas Wish” is a beautiful tale of friendship and the hope that accompanies that, set in a perfect winter landscape. The story is told from the perspective of a snow bunny with an enormous heart, reminding children of the importance of Christmas kindness. There are beautiful illustrations which make this book a treat to share amongst families, and it is perfect for reading aloud.
Conclusion
Each of these books is perfect preparation for the 7 Plus exams, encouraging your child to share their love of reading and hopefully supporting them in their journey to success. The importance of reading as a family cannot be underestimated, and research shows that families who read together also thrive together. If you’re looking for a last-minute Christmas gift for a child in your life who’s about to do 7 Plus exams, look no further than a book!
