I can Share Books with My Friends

Book-sharing supports positive peer interaction, language development, and the understanding that sharing experiences enriches both participants.

Objectives

Materials

Instructions

Set up partner reading spaces around the room with pillows or small rugs. Gather children and introduce: 'Today we're going to share books with friends! When we share stories, we help each other learn and have more fun!'

Model partner reading with a co-teacher or volunteer: 'Watch how we share a book. First, I show the pictures while I tell the story. Then my friend gets a turn to be the storyteller!' Demonstrate holding the book so both partners can see, pointing to pictures, and taking turns.

Pair children thoughtfully—consider mixing strong and developing talkers. Distribute books and circulate as partners 'read' to each other. Coach turn-taking: 'Now it's your friend's turn to be the storyteller!' Prompt positive sharing dialogue: 'Tell your friend what you like about this page!'

Rotate partners after several minutes so children experience different reading companions. Different partners bring different perspectives and energy to the same books.

Conclude in a circle where pairs share one thing they discovered together: 'What did you and your reading friend find in your book?'

Educator tip

Rotate partners regularly throughout the year to build new friendships. Some children may need explicit coaching on how to share book control—help them see that both partners contribute to the reading experience.

Assessment

Observe and note: sustained engagement, sensory responses, early vocalisations, and attachment behaviours. Document using the Characteristics of Effective Learning framework (Playing and Exploring). Observe engagement quality, cooperative behaviours between partners, narrative language use, and comfort with peer interaction.

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