7 Read-Aloud Tips That Turn Story Time Into the Best Part of the Day

I’ve read Bentley’s stories to rooms full of wiggly kindergartners, quiet libraries and festival tents full of families. Here are my favorite tricks for making read-aloud time unforgettable.

1. Preview the cover together

Ask, “What do you think will happen?” Predictions get kids invested before page one.

2. Give every character a voice

You don’t need to be an actor. A squeaky voice for a bee and a booming one for a Hippopotomonsterous is plenty.

3. Pause for the page turn

A dramatic pause before turning the page builds suspense. Kids lean in every time.

4. Let kids finish the line

On a reread, stop before a repeated phrase and let them shout it. Instant confidence!

5. Point and wonder

Ask “I wonder why…” questions about the pictures. It builds comprehension without feeling like a quiz.

6. Make it a hunt

Seek-and-find books like the Bentley books invite kids to search every page, which keeps even the wiggliest listeners engaged.

7. Keep the fun going after The End

Follow up with a drawing, a recipe, a game or a printable. Our Bentley activity packs make that easy with 17 print-and-go pages per book.

Teachers, want to bring Bentley and the Crew to your school? Check out how to host a Bentley and the Crew Day!