You bought the picture book. It’s beautiful, engaging, and filled with potential. But now you’re staring at it, sitting at your desk, wondering, “How do I make this come alive for my students?”
You’re not alone. I’ve been in that same seat—surrounded by books I loved, unsure how to make them meaningful for upper elementary learners. That’s exactly why I created a FREE training designed to help teachers like you—whether you’re brand new, a student teacher, or a seasoned pro looking for a refresh.
{Join the waitlist for the class here!}
Let’s take your read-alouds from “just reading” to moments of magic.
Why Picture Books in Upper Elementary Still Matter
When used with intention, picture books can be the sprinkles on your classroom’s learning ice cream. Sure, ice cream is great on its own—but add those sprinkles? Now you’ve got something unforgettable.
Reading aloud in the upper grades:
- Builds listening comprehension and expands vocabulary
- Supports fluency and expression
- Sparks critical thinking and deeper connections
- Encourages meaningful discussion and life lessons
- Strengthens classroom community and engagement
- Helps multilingual learners and struggling readers feel included
It’s not fluff—it’s strategy. It’s relationship-building. It’s brain-growing!
Start With the Right Scoop: Choosing Powerful Books
Not every picture book is created equal, especially in the upper grades. Think beyond “cute.” Think impact.
Ask yourself:
- Will this book lead to a rich conversation?
- Does it showcase diverse perspectives?
- Is the vocabulary rich, the illustrations powerful?
- Does it tie into content, SEL, or your students’ interests?
Mix fiction with nonfiction. Use humor one day and heart the next. Your students will surprise you when given the space to connect and reflect.
Add the Sprinkles: How to Read Aloud with Intention
Reading aloud isn’t just saying the words. It’s performing. It’s storytelling. It’s engaging with your students as if you’re handing them the keys to another world.
In my free training, I walk you through:
- How to practice with purpose
- Where to pause for connection or discussion
- When to use props, voices, or sound effects
- How to relate the book to students’ lives
Let’s stop reading like robots. Your students don’t want Siri. They want you.
What Comes After “The End”
The learning doesn’t stop once you close the book.
After a read-aloud, go deeper. Ask questions that make your students think critically and respond authentically. Tie the story into writing, SEL, or content standards. Let the story live on through conversations, art, and shared experiences.
In other words? Keep those sprinkles flowing.
Free Read-Aloud Training Just for You
You don’t have to figure this all out on your own. I’ve put everything I know as a 5th-grade teacher, picture book expert, and read-aloud enthusiast into a FREE step-by-step training. It’s designed with busy teachers in mind and packed with tips, ideas, and resources you can use immediately.
👉 Click here to join the free training.
Whether you’re new to the classroom or just ready to shake things up, this training will help you use picture books not just as a tool, but as a transformational experience.
Because This Is a Hill I’m Willing to Die On
Picture books aren’t just for little kids.
They open doors to tough conversations. They give voice to students who feel unseen. They create moments your students will remember long after they leave your classroom.
And they made it possible for me to earn a college degree.
So, let’s stop leaving those beautiful books on the shelf. Let’s sprinkle some magic all over your teaching.
