Make up a story with your first-grader to develop their imagination and ability to visualize stories in their head. Begin by saying the foundation of a story that your first-grader can build upon. For example, you may say, "Once upon a time, there was a princess named Julie who lived with her parents in Neverland." Ask your first-grader to fill in the next detail, alternating between the two of you. Keep the story simple but encourage creativity.
Do this fun activity on a weekend when you and your first-grader have extra time in the day. Watch a movie that is based on a popular children's book, such as "The Cat in the Hat," with your first-grader. Later that evening, read the book and ask your child to note similarities and differences between the book and the movie. Ask him to identify his favorite characters in the book as well as the movie.
Give your first-grader a pen and paper and read a story aloud. Have her sketch the details of the story as you read the story, but do not show her pictures as you read. When you have finished reading the story, ask to see her drawing and why she chose to illustrate that particular scene. You can also have her draw and color her favorite scene from the story when you have finished reading.
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Read a nighttime story with your first-grader that has a simple plot. Then ask him to recall details of the story. Alternately, make statements about the story but leave out details and have your first-grader fill in the blanks as a way to test his reading retention and comprehension.