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Reading Logs

June 8, 2022 by Printabulls Team 2 Comments

Whether you are well into the school year or are enjoying a relaxed summertime schedule, reading logs are undoubtedly an excellent way for your child or student to keep track of their book-reading goals.

During the school year, children (in both elementary and middle school) are encouraged – or even required – to read as much as possible and are usually given a target number of minutes or pages to read every day. If you are an educator, homeschooler, or are a parent who simply wants their child to excel in reading, printing out a reading log for them to keep track of their minutes is the perfect way to ensure they are reading an appropriate minimum amount. Tracking progress also allows the child to see how well they are doing which will encourage them to read even more!

If the school year has ended and you’re already into summertime mode it doesn’t mean that reading is less important or unneeded – with all that extra time on their hands it is actually a perfect opportunity to have your child check out some books from the local library (more book trackers here!) and dive in! Reading year-round will help them maintain all the progress they’ve made during the previous school year in terms of reading and comprehension, plus it’s a great boredom buster – who doesn’t love getting lost in a great book!?

Below, we have 21 Free Printable Reading Logs for your child(ren) to use! Each one will allow them to keep track of the titles, minutes, and/or pages they have read every day. Some are specific to summer reading while others are perfect for use any time of the year. Several are weekly reading logs while the remainder are monthly. There is a lot of variety when it comes to what you’re looking for, so be sure to scroll through the options below to pick the perfect one for your needs!

After you’ve found the one you want to use, all you need to do is click on the image, download the free PDF file to your computer, and print!

All that’s left now is to find a good book (or a few) and enjoy some good quality reading time!

Reader Interactions

March 3, 2023 at 9:51 am

I love these!

March 6, 2023 at 8:48 am

Glad you like them! 🙂

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Reading Log – Printable Templates

Welcome to our collection of printable reading logs! Whether you’re a teacher looking to encourage your students to read more or a parent wanting to keep track of your child’s reading progress, these logs are here to help. We’ve got 10 different logs to choose from, each with its own unique style and features. Whether you want something simple and straightforward or something a bit more interactive and fun, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, take a look and see which one works best for you and your family.

Reading logs are a great tool for students to keep track of their reading progress, set goals, and reflect on what they’ve read. There are many different ways to create a reading log and many different types of reading logs to choose from. Here are a few ideas:

• Simple reading chart: This is a basic reading log where students can just record the title, author, and number of pages of each book they read. This is a good option for younger students or for students who are just starting to keep track of their reading.
• Reflective reading chart: This type of reading log asks students to think more deeply about what they’ve read. Students can write a short summary of the book and then reflect on their thoughts and feelings about the book. This can be a great way for students to process and understand what they’ve read.
• Reading challenge chart: This type of reading log is for students who want to set a goal for themselves and track their progress. Students can set a goal for how many books they want to read in a certain time period, and then record each book as they finish it. This can be a fun and rewarding way for students to push themselves to read more.
• Book club reading chart: If a student is part of a book club, they can use a reading log to keep track of the books they read with the club and record their thoughts and discussions about each book.
• Digital reading chart: There are many apps and websites that allow students to create a digital reading log. This can be a convenient option for students who prefer to keep track of their reading on their phone or computer.

So why is it important for students to keep a reading log? Here are a few reasons:

• It helps students keep track of their reading progress: A reading log is a great way for students to see how much they’ve read over time. This can be especially helpful for students who are trying to improve their reading skills or who are working towards a specific reading goal.
• It encourages students to read more: By keeping a reading log, students can see how much they’ve read and how close they are to reaching their reading goal. This can be a great motivator for students to keep reading.
• It helps students reflect on what they’ve read: A reading log that asks students to write about their thoughts and feelings about a book can be a great way for students to process and understand what they’ve read. This can lead to deeper and more meaningful discussions about the books they’ve read.
• It helps students stay organized: A reading log can help students keep track of which books they’ve read and when they read them. This can be especially helpful for students who are part of a book club or who are reading a series of books.

In conclusion, reading logs are a useful tool for students to keep track of their reading progress, set goals, and reflect on what they’ve read. There are many different ways to create a reading log and many different types to choose from. Whether it’s a simple log to record the books they’ve read, a reflective log to think more deeply about their reading, or a digital log to keep track of their progress on their phone or computer, a reading log can be a valuable resource for students.

Reading Log Printable Templates

Simple, with space for four books, including book name, author, start and end date, and the student's star rating for the book.

Include title, minutes spent reading, and space for a short review as well as a spot for students to write about their favorite part of this week's reading.

The students colors one fish for every 10 minutes of reading during the week.

Includes the book title, number of minutes read, difficulty and star rating

This simple reading chart includes the date, title author and minutes read.

Includes space for title author, and start/end date.

Includes date, pages read, minutes read, and smile face ratings.

A single book review sheet that includes smiley ratings, new words and characters learned, and space for next book to read.

Single book review with space for main characters, new words learned, favorite parts, and recommendation

Book reflection that provides space for the student to write a paragraph about what they liked and disliked about the book

Check out other ReadingVine.com resources:

• Sight Word Flash Cards
• Sight Word Bingo Cards
• Printable CVC Words

Printable Homework Charts

Susie is an experienced writer and educator with a master's degree in education and another in education/library media. She has written on various health topics.

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Free printable homework charts help kids at any grade level in a public, private, or homeschool setting get organized and stay on task. Kids with any organizational style can find a homework chart that will work for them without a lot of extra effort.

LoveToKnow Printable Homework Charts

Start the school year off right by printing enough homework charts to get your child through the entire year. Teachers can also use them to organize and plan their homework assignments in advance. Click on the image of the chart that works best for you to download and print. If you need help downloading the charts, check out these helpful tips .

Simple Weekly Homework Checklist

Children in preschool and kindergarten can use this simple weekly homework chart to write in their one assignment for each day of the week. A check box after each day can be used by kids to check when the assignment is complete or for parents to initial that the work is done.

Fun and Easy Homework Chart

Little kids will love the fun graphics on this list-style homework chart. This printable is great for kids who don't get assignments on a daily basis because it only features sections for the subject or task and completion. One page might last you a day, week, or month depending on when homework is assigned.

Homework Chart List

Keep track of homework assignments based on the date they were assigned with this list-style homework chart. Kids can write in the date, subject, and assignment then indicate when a project or task is complete.

Homework Assignment List

Kids in a self-directed learning environment can use the printable homework assignment list to keep track of assignments. There is a space to write the subject, assignment, and completion date so kids can stay organized even when they don't have deadlines.

Homework Chart by Subject

A weekly homework chart separated out by subject helps keep older kids in upper elementary and middle school organized. Simply write in your assignments for each subject with the date they are due. As you complete each homework task, you can check off the box to indicate it's finished.

Homework Chart for Teachers

Teachers at any grade level who want to involve parents in homework time can use this homework chart for teachers and parents. Parents and teachers can keep tabs on long-term projects from week to week by having kids check the "in progress" box to show they've started it.

Purpose of Printable Homework Charts

Why should you use printable charts ? Structure, organization, and immediate feedback are just a few reasons why weekly homework charts may be the answer to your prayers regarding your child's academic performance. You can take away privileges, ground them, and use other forms of punishment, but until you help your child solve his or her organizational issues, you're really not solving the problem. Some ways a homework chart can help your child include:

• Keep assignments organized long-term
• Stay motivated to complete homework
• Feel a sense of accomplishment when checking off assignments
• Reinforce positive child behavior and promote responsibility
• Commit assignments to memory through the act of writing them down

Homework Chart Ideas

Homework charts are easy to find and print, but they aren't always easy to use. Keep in mind that if you focus too much on the chart, however, your child may begin to resent it. You want this to be a positive experience, not a negative one! Help your child create a new habit and make the most of these organizational tools using creative means>

• Create a notebook filled with homework charts that serve as an instant checklist for kids, parents, and teachers to access and review.
• Assign one color for each subject by printing each chart in a different color or using a colored pencil to color in the subjects.
• Attach a file folder or magnetic clip to your refrigerator and place each week's homework chart in the folder or on the clip so it's seen daily.
• Add a reward system like putting star stickers next to work completed then offer a reward like going to dinner or a movie for a certain number of stars.
• Address any consequences for failing to use the homework chart adequately such as limiting TV time.
• Review the charts at the end of each week with your child to emphasize the importance of organization and reinforce topics.

Success Through Organization

Kids' lives are busy and it's easy to forget about things like small homework assignments. Give your kids the tools they need to succeed in school such as homework charts and other organizational tools.

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homework charts

July 27, 2018 By Katie 3 Comments

Back to school brings mixed emotions in my home. For the kids, of course, it’s mostly sadness that the hazy lazy days of a hot summer have come and gone. It’s back to school and “too much homework” as they always say. For myself, as a Mom of a growing brood, there are the pros: first day of school signs and pictures, cute back to school clothes, quieter and more productive days, etc. But with the start of school, there is also the realization that I only get so many fun summers with my little ones before they want to hang out with their friends more than Mom. 😪 I also know that those clothes and supplies can cost a small fortune and with school comes endless homework, extracurricular activities, and the endless stream of paperwork and dates and times to remember for  each  child. Yep, definitely a mixed bag!

Of all the mixed emotions there is a constant that always seems to be a source of frustration in our home: homework. When it comes to homework I’m very, very comfortably between the  tiger moms and the free-rangers, who respectively are strict disciplinarians who want sky-high academic results at all times and parents content to let their kids learn by doing and being independent as possible.

I’m not saying any of the either of the above approaches are more correct than the other, to each their own and every child needs to be parented in the way that suits them best. But I’m definitely not going to lose it if my kids miss a day of homework. Neither am I going to let them just play every day. Balance in all things is my philosophy. I’d assume most Moms rest in this cozy middle area with me. 🙂

In order to find the balance between too much and too little homework, I’ve spent some time creating homework charts, checklists, and planners for a variety of situations. ( I’ll be adding more and more over time so check back if you don’t see the one you want. Or leave a comment and I might  be able to squeeze in some time to create new ones based off reader feedback.). You may also like these printable first day of school signs and bedtime routine charts too. #justsayin.

I hope one of the ones below, whether you use rewards or eschew them, works for your family and each specific child no matter what parenting style you use in your home! Just click on the text links below each preview image to download your PDF and then print your preferred hw chart for your home.

WEEKLY HOMEWORK CHARTS

Below are a variety of weekly homework charts and planners. While they vary a little bit most of them allow some combination of assignments or class, days of the week, dates, due dates, daily reading tracking, and some form of completion in the form of a checkbox or otherwise. I hope these weekly homework planners make life easier this year!

RAINBOW WEEKLY HOMEWORK CHART

MONOCHROMATIC WEEKLY HOMEWORK CHART

SUBJECT/ASSIGNMENT/DUE DATE/CHECKBOX HOMEWORK CHART

DAILY/WEEKLY HOMEWORK CHART

WEEKLY 8-SUBJECT HOMEWORK CHART

WEEKLY HOMEWORK CHART FOR KIDS

HOMEWORK REWARD CHARTS

The charts below are set up for monthly tracking BUT just because they are monthly homework charts doesn’t mean you can’t set rewards at the daily or weekly level. I’ve always found it to be more effective when I tailor the rewards to each child and subject. Sometimes they need a reward on a daily basis (really struggling to form a good habit), sometimes on a weekly basis and sometimes the reward is such that they better do their homework for an entire month if I’m holding up my end of the bargain! So, whether you use these as a homework sticker chart or simply use checkmarks or something else entirely, hopefully, you’ll find a method that will work for your child! Even better if we can inspire them to  love learning and the reward chart becomes a temporary aid to unlock a lifetime of learning!

MY MONTHLY HOMEWORK REWARD CHART

GOLD STAR HOMEWORK REWARDS CHART

FILL-IN-THE-STARS MONTHLY HOMEWORK REWARD CHART

KIDS MONTHLY HOMEWORK LOG

KIDS HOMEWORK AND REWARD CHART

If you’re feeling generous, I’d love a re-pin  (or a pin of the image below) or facebook share if you have a second. But, as always, no obligation.

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Reader Interactions

[…] since you’re here, don’t miss out on these free printable bedtime routine charts and homework charts/planners as things settle back into the normal day to day school routine. You also won’t want to miss […]

[…] use some of that coveted nightly free time to take requests. 🙂 Make sure you check out these printable homework charts and first day of school printables while you’re getting ready for the school […]

[…] with it so many things to keep track of – the papers! The schedules! The shopping lists! The homework and assignments! All of the meal planning for the crazy busy […]

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Search All Reward Charts for Kids

Reading Chart Templates

The following reading chart templates will encourage kids to read more books.  Please scroll down the page until you find the perfect chart for your needs.

Reading Log for Kids

Kindergarten reading log.

Free printable reading logs for kindergarten in color and in black and white.

This kindergarten reading log printable records up to 8 stories (for younger kids or children who have just started reading).

Editable PDF

These reading logs are for younger kids who still read stories (not books). If you encourage younger kids to read stories chances are they will want to read more books when they are older.

Children’s reading log for 10 stories (with no prize)

This free reading log is for 20 stories (with no prize for completing the books).

This reading chart printable is for 20 stories (with a prize for completing the stories).

Elementary reading log

1st grade reading log.

This free printable reading log records up to 10 stories (for younger kids or children who have just started reading).

2nd Grade Reading Log

This free printable reading log template for kids records up to 10 books.

This book reading chart for kids records up to 8 books.

Reading book log printable for 10 books (with no prize for completing the books).

Reading sticker chart for 10 books (with a prize for completing the books).

3rd Grade Reading Log

Editable PDF | Word Version

4th Grade Reading Log

5th Grade Reading Log

Middle School Reading Log

Chart for 20 books (with no prize for completing the books).

The following middle school reading charts are available in Word format so you can edit them if you want to make any changes.

6th Grade Reading Log

7th Grade Reading Log

Weekly Reading Log

This weekly chart is from Monday to Friday. However, if you want to include the weekend to practice or catch up then use the Word version and add two lines.

See Reading Rewards to encourage and motivate kids to read.

If there are any more free printable reading incentive charts that you would like us to add to this collection, then please leave a comment below.

There is no need to go into the benefits of reading. Everyone understands the importance. However, many teachers and parents are constantly looking for ways to get their kids and students to read more. Today, kids spend way too much time in front of screens and not enough time reading.

One of the ways people find they can encourage kids to read is by using reading charts. These charts track the number or pages or the time spent reading.

How to Use the Reading Charts

Let students choose what they want to read.

When they choose what they want to read they will spend more time reading and it won’t be considered a “punishment”. Some kids will probably choose only comics. Some teachers, do not consider comics reading whereas others claim that it is better than nothing and it will also help their reading skills.

Offer an award or incentive

Offer some reward when kids read 10 or 20 books. Some of our charts have a section to add this reward. This will motivate them to read more. This reward can be no homework for a day, a treat, or anything else that will motivate them.

Ask students to write a note each time they read

This note can include a new word they added to their vocabulary, something interesting about the book, something they didn’t like about the book, etc. The idea is to get them thinking about what they read.

When they finish reading a book ask them for their opinion. They can write either what they liked about the story or what they didn’t like or both.

Don’t make the written tasks overwhelming

The idea is to get the kids to read and to enjoy reading so don’t ask them too many questions. We really want them to develop good reading habits and a big part of that is to make them want to read and to actually enjoy it.

Let kids read at their own pace

Do not dictate how many pages each child has to read unless you see some kids are taking advantage of this. One child might read 20 pages in the allotted time whereas another reads 10 pages only. Try to let them read at their own pace.

Keep all the reading charts in a binder

When you keep all the charts you will show the progress that they might not see when they don’t check all their old charts. When they look back and see how much they read they will feel proud and get a feeling of accomplishment.

Ask them to make a note if they enjoyed the book or not

This will show them which books they enjoyed and will help them choose similar books in the future. We want them to choose books they enjoy so they keep on reading.

How to get kids to read

9 ways to get children to read.

9 fun and original ways to get your kids to read and have fun while doing so!

1. Find fun activities related to books.

Let your child write the end of the story . Once your child has read the beginning of a book for the first time ask him to tell you the rest of the story the way he would like it to play out. If he is old enough he can write it down and even add his own pictures. When he has finished he can read it to you. After that, he can read the original book to see how the author chose to complete the story.

Make a play about the book – Once your children have read a book, encourage them to make a play about it. They can invite over some friends if they want/need additional actors. Give them ideas to make props, create their own invitations, and even entrance tickets. Once they have completed rehearsals, you can invite some people (such as grandparents or the friends’ parents) over to watch the play. Don’t forget to applaud and tell them how wonderful they are! You can also take a home video of the play and transfer it to a DVD. Buy a DVD sticker on which you can write the name of the play, the name of the actors and you can even add their photo. Your kids will be so proud to have their own DVD. It is a great thing to keep and watch in a few years (assuming we are able to watch DVD’s in a few years! Try listening to a cassette or record today 🙂 ).

Make an art project related to a book your kids just read. There are thousands of ideas for art projects online for young and older kids. Find one related to the book that you would like to make.

Visit a place related to the book – For example, if your child reads the book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” maybe you could visit a chocolate factory (many factories have a visitor’s center for kids). If your child reads a book about animals, you could visit the zoo.

Ask your child to draw a picture about the book and have it framed to hang in her room.

Make your own dictionary – buy a phone book for your child. Each time she encounters a word that she is not familiar with, she can write the word and the meaning in her phone book (after either asking you the meaning or preferably looking it up). Writing the meaning of a world often helps to remember it. When she looks back she will see just how many words she has added to her vocabulary! It is also helpful when she forgets the meaning of a word she has previously looked up. This is a great tool for kids reading in a second language.

Make bookmarks that will be fun to use . There are thousands of ideas online if you need inspiration!

Find related printables online . There are many websites that offer fun printable activities related to certain books.

2. Use reading charts and set reading goals.

Use a reading chart (see above) to keep track of reading progress and motivate your children. The reward can be extra screen time, a fun activity, or enabling your child to go to sleep later on a weekend. If you are not on a tight budget, educational games are a great reward. There are many games that are both fun and really educational. The more they read, the more prizes they can earn! You can also set up a point system. Each book is worth a certain number of stickers on the book chart (it could be one it could be more depending on length and difficulty). The more points they earn, the bigger the prize that they can get. They can either “spend” their points on a smaller prize or save up for a bigger prize! For example, once they complete an entire book chart they can get a smaller prize but if they complete two book charts then they can get a bigger prize. This will reward them for reading and teach them to save. We offer free printable “ Book Bucks ” with a table that shows kids what their prize will be for earning book bucks (depending on how many they earn).

3. Set up a comfortable reading spot.

Some spots look so comfy you just want to curl up with a good book. Try to arrange a similar spot for your child. It can be a comfortable sofa, chair, or even just cushions on the floor.

4. Set a good example.

If your children see you reading often they will understand that books should be a part of their life too!

5. Make regular trips to the library.

Make this a family activity. Read stories together there and take books home for each family member. It’s a fun and cheap way to spend time together and everyone enjoys it. It also sets a good example!

6. Help kids find an author that they love or books about a topic they are interested in.

Often, there are specific books or authors that kids love, but you might need to help them find them. Once they do, they might be hooked!

7. Discuss the books

Ask your child to tell you about the book she read once she completes it. Ask her questions. Try to ask both simple questions, open-ended questions, and more complex ones that make her think about the meaning of the book and the moral of the story.

If your kids are addicted to TV and hate reading why not get them a foreign movie with subtitles? If they want to watch, they will have to read! In time they will significantly improve the speed of their reading.

9. Start slowly for those you have difficulty reading.

If reading an entire book seems overwhelming, then you can ask them to read a few pages or a chapter. Setting small goals sometimes enables children to accomplish more than bigger goals that just make them give up quickly.

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I love this website and going to used the charts with my daycare kids

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Reading Log Templates

18 printable reading log templates for kids & adults [free].

Reading helps to improve concentration and the ability to focus, as well as improving overall literacy. Reading for even a short time each day can also reduce stress and be a relaxing form of entertainment in what is a constantly busy and bustling modern world.

Using a reading log can be a fantastic way to encourage students to read for pleasure, making daily reading a habit for life. As an avid reader myself, I have used reading logs for many years to keep track of everything I read. It’s also a fun way to look back at all the books I’ve read –  whether I loved or loathed them.

Table of Contents

• 1 Reading Log Templates
• 2.1 Make reading fun
• 3 Reading Journal Templates
• 4.1 Building a reading habit doesn’t need to feel overwhelming.
• 5.1 Consider the time frame of the reading log
• 5.2 Essential things to include in a reading log
• 5.3 Fun things to include in a reading log
• 6 Book Reading Logs
• 7.1 Reading in any form is a positive habit for students to build.
• 7.2 1. Reading logs promote discipline
• 7.3 2. Students have autonomy over their own reading
• 7.4 3. A reading journal can help improve reading comprehension
• 7.5 4. Reading logs make reading fun!
• 8.1 Choose a reading log template that suits you
• 8.2 Promote a love of reading with a printable reading log

You can download our free printable reading log templates to help kids begin their journey into loving reading.

What is a reading log?

A reading log, also known as a reading journal, is a document used to keep track of your child’s or your student’s reading. It is essentially a place where a student can record all of the books they read.

The reading log can track a variety of things, such as the title of the book, the date the book was started, the number of pages read, and the time spent reading.

Reading logs are a great tool to promote reading as a consistent, daily habit for kids. They also give students a visual representation of their progress and help to encourage kids to read every day.

Make reading fun

• In addition to this, you can also use reading journals as a classroom management tool. Students can receive stickers or stars if they read a certain number of pages per day, for example.
• Developing a good reading habit at a young age can help to foster a love of reading in students. It encourages students to read outside of school, which is where reading can become a habit.
• Using a reading log can then feel like a fun game or challenge for kids, in which they want to have a higher number of pages read each day or increase their minutes read. This encourages them to turn the page and keep reading even if they feel distracted. It can then stop kids from reaching for electronic devices instead.

You can use our free reading log templates and printable reading logs to minimize teacher workload and to allow students to decorate their reading log creatively if they wish.

Reading Journal Templates

How does a reading log work?

Building a reading habit doesn’t need to feel overwhelming..

Using a reading log template is a free and easy way to record data.

Kids should treat them like a reading journal, documenting their progress in a fun way.

All kids need to do to complete their reading journal is to follow these steps:

• Choose a book that sounds fun and interesting.
• Set aside dedicated reading time (even if it’s only 5 or 10 minutes).
• Read the book!
• Write down the author’s name, the book title, and the amount of time spent reading or the number of pages read.
• Record any extra information that is included in the reading log, such as writing a short chapter summary.
• Have parents or guardians sign the reading log if necessary.

What should be included in a reading log?

There are many features you can include in a reading log.

Many printable reading logs and journal templates already come with a lot of these useful features, to help make reading as fun as possible for kids.

There are some aspects of a reading log that are necessary to track reading accurately and to support kids’ reading skills in the best way, such as including the date the book was started and finished, and the title of the book.

Consider the time frame of the reading log

• Weekly or daily reading logs. If the reading journal is a weekly reading log or a daily reading log, then it is important to write down the number of pages read or minutes spent reading. This can give teachers a clearer insight into students’ progress.
• Monthly reading logs. However, if the focus of the reading log is less on making reading a daily habit, but simply a more regular one, then you may choose not to include the minutes read or the number of pages This could be in the form of monthly reading logs instead. With this, you may opt for a simple date, title, and rating layout.

Essential things to include in a reading log

• The book title and author of the book: Knowing the title can help teachers to assess whether the book is appropriate, as some books may be too challenging (or not challenging enough) and thus prevent a love of reading from growing.
• Start and finish date: This is essential to help track how long it took the student to read the book in full, and encourages a weekly reading habit .
• A rating or opinion: Kids should be encouraged to think critically about the fiction they are reading. You could include a star rating system in the reading log, or use facial expression emojis for students to circle depending on how much they enjoyed the book.

Fun things to include in a reading log

• Minutes read or pages read: A fun way to encourage kids to love reading is by making it into a game or challenge. Setting a target, and documenting the minutes read not only helps teachers to track progress but will also give kids something to improve upon each time. Kids could also write down the page number they finished on, so they can continue reading where they left off.
• A plot summary : Kids can write a short paragraph summary of the story of the book. This also highlights how much they absorbed the information in the book.
• Favorite Scenes, characters, or quotes: Fiction books can be very engaging for kids, so let them share their thoughts in the reading log. Kids could also fill out the page numbers for their favorite scenes or quotes as a point of reference.
• Genre: Encourage kids to learn about different books and genres by asking them to write down what genre they think the book fits into. At the end of the year, this can then be used to see what genres the kids preferred, which can then help you to decide which books to display in the classroom.
• Strengths and weaknesses of the book: Kids could write down three positive and three negative things about the book. This promotes critical thinking skills and gives students a chance to share their honest opinions.

Reading logs can also be used seasonally in the classroom. Many teachers give kids a reading log during summer break to promote reading during this time. Alternatively, you might choose to use a winter reading log or have reading logs focused on different yearly holidays.

Book Reading Logs

What are the benefits of a reading log?

Reading in any form is a positive habit for students to build..

If kids write in their reading logs consistently, then their reading time is becoming consistent, and this is a great start.

However, there are many benefits of reading logs besides simply encouraging kids to read.

1. Reading logs promote discipline

Reading logs, particularly for older students, are often used outside of school, independently. By having a duty to record their minutes read or pages read in the reading log, reading can be incorporated into the student’s routine and encourages them to have an independent task that parents or guardians are not involved with.

Kids must make time in their day to read so that they can write in their reading log. This focus on a structure can increase kids’ reading time, whilst giving them an opportunity to build self-discipline, which is an important skill for young learners to develop.

2. Students have autonomy over their own reading

Many of us will recall being ‘forced’ to read boring books in school. Reading logs help to eliminate this feeling of dread when having to pick up the school-assigned book.  Reading logs should give students the freedom to choose whatever book they wish to read (as long as it is age-appropriate).

Teachers can encourage students to use their school library or local library to choose from a wide range of books, and to choose a book based on their own interests.  There are so many fantastic children’s fiction books available, and a reading journal should be used in a way that gives students a chance to explore their local libraries and bookshops.

As a book lover, there is nothing more fun than wandering around a bookshop and choosing a new fiction book. Reading logs can be an opportunity to give students this wonderful experience for themselves.

3. A reading journal can help improve reading comprehension

Reading is a skill, and like all skills, they only improve with regular, consistent effort.

Writing in a reading log daily or weekly ensures that students are reading on a regular basis. This will undoubtedly help to improve reading comprehension, and allow students to understand the content of their chosen book more easily.

If you download a reading log or journal templates that include a section for a chapter or plot summary, or even a place for students to record their favorite characters or favorite scenes, this can definitely build reading comprehension ability.

With this, students have to remember key details from the book. It is a great way for teachers to track just how much students are absorbing from the book that they are reading.

4. Reading logs make reading fun!

Reading should be pleasurable. It should be viewed as a fun, exciting activity, and it is often a teacher’s dream to hear students thinking in this way.  Using reading log templates not only eases the strain of designing a unique reading log but is also a versatile, creative option.

There are many reading logs that you can download and customize to your liking, or you may wish to use printable reading logs and keep them as they are.  Kids can decorate their reading logs or use fun stationery to fill in their information. It sounds simple, but small outlets for creativity can make reading more fun for students who struggle to pick up a book.

How to use reading log templates

As a teacher, I understand the busy workload placed upon educators. There are many aspects of teaching to juggle, and creating brand-new resources can often add additional pressure to an already increasingly demanding schedule. Using reading log templates can help to minimize this workload, and also does not mean that the resources are low quality.

There are many unique, student-friendly reading logs that you can download to encourage reading among your students.

Choose a reading log template that suits you

You can choose from a range of fun printable reading logs to use in your classroom. Depending on the needs of your students, you can download a reading log design that is suitable for you.  If you prefer a reading log that requires students to fill in a lot of numerical data, such as pages read, then there is a printable reading log for you.

Maybe you prefer reading logs where students need to write about the book. We offer many free printable reading logs to download for this purpose.

Promote a love of reading with a printable reading log

Reading log templates are a fantastic resource, not only for educators but for anyone wishing to track their reading. Reading journals can also be used by parents to encourage their kids to read more at home.

You can choose to download from our range of free printable reading logs to best suit you.  I think everyone should experience the benefits of reading, and reading logs are an excellent way to get started, and can hopefully build a new generation of book lovers.

Happy reading!

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Home » Blog Posts » ELA » Effective Alternatives to Reading Logs

Effective Alternatives to Reading Logs

What do you do when your students aren’t completing their reading logs? This post outlines effective alternatives to reading logs that you can use no matter what grade you teach!

*This post contains affiliate links to Amazon for your convenience. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, which do not cost any extra for you. Please see the  full disclosure here. *

What is a Reading Log?

If you give students a printed or digital chart where they have to write what they’ve read or the amount of time spent on reading, then you are using a reading log.

Reading logs are mainly used for accountability rather than reading motivation.

Most teachers push the importance of independent reading, especially more reading at home. So we “encourage” students to track how much they’ve read with a reading log.

There’s only one little problem…

…they don’t work! Reading logs don’t motivate kids to read more or better, which is our ultimate goal. That’s why we spend so much time looking for alternatives to reading logs.

So what should teachers do instead? Well, I’m so glad you asked…

How Do I Hold My Students Accountable to Read?

As soon as you dive into the discussion of using reading logs or any alternatives to reading logs, the issue of accountability comes back up.

Many teachers make reading homework mandatory, but struggle with ideas to “enforce” that assignment. So we look for different ideas on how to make sure our students are reading.

There are common problems that cause students to hate or avoid independent reading in the first place:

• Students who struggle with reading comprehension may feel overwhelmed even if they have to read for 20 minutes!
• The book choices are very boring to them or they may not have access to engaging reading material at home.
• Life outside of school may be so busy or stressful that some kids just don’t have the energy to read every day.
• Recording a book title, page length, and time-amounts on a reading log could actually be zapping away the joy of reading in the first place.

As we consider alternatives to reading logs and other accountability strategies, we must keep these issues in mind.

When our students are motivated and equipped to read well, the need to hold them accountable fades away! They’ll read because they love it. Tanya G. Marshall–The Butterfly Teacher

Kids of all ages love a good story and will naturally gravitate to experiences with reading that bring them joy.

So our ultimate goal as teachers isn’t accountability, it’s making reading fun and accessible for our students!

Instead of using Reading Logs or Reading Homework Charts, I use Reading Challenges , in the form of bookmarks with my students.

My students are way more motivated to complete a reading challenge than a chart or reading log that only lists what books they’ve read.

Having the challenges on bookmarks cuts down on students losing them because they are using the bookmark while they’re reading.

Here’s how I use Reading Bookmark Challenges instead of Reading Logs:

• Each week my students get a bookmark from me with five reading ideas on it. When they complete a reading assignment, aka challenge , they color that space on their bookmark.
• For our 9-week grading period, this gives students 35 different reading ideas/challenges.
• I give reading awards during 3, 6, and 9 week intervals as a way to further motivate them to complete all the reading assignments/challenges.
• Some of these challenges can be completed at home and some can be completed at school. That allows flexibility for students.

I change the challenges depending on the season or activities happening in our class. This makes it super easy for me to continue using them for things like winter-themed activities or with holiday read-alouds .

There’s enough variety with each bookmark challenge that students don’t get bored keeping up with reading throughout the school year.

Make Independent Reading Engaging with Book & Poetry Talks

Another way that I keep my students motivated to read without using reading logs is with Book and Poetry Talks.

When students in my class read a poem or book independently at home or in class during our D.E.A.R (Drop. Everything. And.Read) time, they can discuss their reading with a partner.

In order to stay focused and on track with their partner, they use prompt cards that keep the conversation flowing around what they’re reading.

In order to use this as an alternative to reading logs, I make sure to:

• Include book talk time into our literacy center rotations . Many teachers are already doing something similar to this with Daily 5’s Read-to-Partner time. But my students aren’t just reading to each other, they are engaged in conversations about their reading.
• Not require any writing with these Book Talks and Poetry Talks . Since we have so many other opportunities to write about our reading, I do not ask students to write anything during their book talk time.
• Keep prompt cards and sentence stems on a book ring to help students learn how to engage in conversations about their books and poems.

My students are way more motivated to keep up with reading when they know they’ll have lots of opportunities to work with a buddy.

This makes a much more effective alternative to using reading logs for me.

Engage in Whole-Class Novel Studies

The third way I keep my students engaged with reading without using reading logs is through whole class novel studies that we read in during class and for homework.

Throughout the school year, I allot time during our literacy block to read chapter books out loud with my students.

Here are some general tips and info about how I’ve included novel studies in my class over the years:

• If you can give each student their own copy of the novel, that works great. If not, just use an overhead projector to show the book to your class.
• Read out loud to them, but also let them read out loud too. Especially if the book has a lot of character dialogue. I let different kids read each character part like reader’s theater. 
• Every 3-4 chapters, give a mini quiz to assess their understanding. You can choose to grade it or not. Depending on the size of the book, you may want to do this every 1-2 chapters.
• Try to plan a set time to have novel reading each day or during a set time each week. Your students will really look forward to this time as “novel book time.”
• I shopped yard sales for pillows and asked people to donate seat cushions or pillows so that my kids could lie on the floor or be more comfortable at their desks during our novel book time. These pillows were exclusively used for our novel studies time, which made it even more special to my kiddos.

More General Tips Related to Novel Studies

Since using novel studies, I’ve never had to “enforce” reading homework! Each year that I’ve incorporated whole class chapter book reading into my upper elementary class, my students WANT to continue reading our stories at home.

Plus, they don’t want to be left out or behind during our next book reading time.

Here are some extra resources that will help you with novel studies in your class:

• The Best 10 Novel Studies for 4th & 5th Graders
• Cheap & Free Ways to Stock Your Classroom Library
• How to Help Your Boys Fall in Love with Reading

Recruit Reading Buddies for Your Students

I will go ahead and admit, when it comes to alternatives for reading logs, this one can be a pretty big challenge!

For the past two years, during our back-to-school time, I begin talking to my students’ families about becoming Reading Buddies.

A Reading Buddy is an adult who can commit some time each week or a few times a month to reading with a student outside of school.

It can be a coach, a mentor, church member, or family member.

I do not make this mandatory, but I definitely emphasize and advertise it often. Since this idea is still new for me, I’ve been flexible with its use and will continue to tweak it each year. (Which means there’s more to come on this topic!)

Students and their reading buddies can choose their own reading material. I even had a set of siblings that would read magazines with their uncle once a month!

So far, parents and students have shown more enthusiasm for this than filling out a reading log.

The ultimate goal is to encourage families to read with kids outside of school any chance they get.

General Alternatives to Reading Logs for Older Students

Here are a few more ideas you can use to replace reading logs when you teach older students;

• BookSnaps– which remind me of Snapchat! Students take a picture of themselves with their book and post it online with a quick description of it.
• Book Vlogs- -students can keep an online video collection detailing each book they’ve read and their opinion of the book.
• Google Docs– set up a shared Google Doc allowing your students to share comments on books they’re reading.

No matter which idea from this full post you decide to try, the main goal is to find effective ways to keep your students motivated to read!

The more they fall in love with reading, the less you’ll have to “hold them accountable” to read!

Happy Teaching 🦋

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Printable Homework Charts for Kids

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Homework Charts Introduction

Ah-h-h-h, the evergreen challenge of making sure the kids’ homework is done. You can make life easier by using one of our versatile Homework Charts to take the guesswork out of expectations. Some kids, especially those with attention difficulties, do better with a chart to help keep them focused. Others like checking off items when completed, much as  adults enjoy clearing a to-do list. Of course, then there are those who try to avoid homework as much as possible. The chart reminds them of your expectations.

Chore charts, behavior charts, potty charts, and much more

Behavior charts, award certificates, feelings charts, and much more

Selecting a Homework Chart

We’ve developed Homework Charts for primary ages to teens. You’ll know as a parent when you need to start the process to provide structure and an incentive with homework. You don’t need to start a chart until it is needed. (In fact if you have a youngster who handles all the homework without intervention, give yourself a star!)

Using Our Printable Homework Charts

You may want to include details, like by what time homework should be started. Or you may want to simply focus on academic subjects. You can include different aspects of homework: Bringing assignments and books home, packing up completed work properly for taking to school, and a spot for turning in work. Be sure to sit down and have a discussion with your child. For older students, come to an agreement on how the homework should be approached. Nail down expectations, and determine a reasonable incentive. It feels great to get work out of the way without you having to keep reminding them; let our Homework Charts help.

Behavior Chart Guide:  Get helpful tips on using charts (plus 10 bonus charts and a free poster)

Keep it Interesting

We suggest rotating the chart from time to time to help keep young children involved with the chart. Don’t forget that Premium and Pro Members at Latitudes.org can type directly onto these charts. We recommend printing a few at a time, then complete another chart in a similar manner, and keep them in a file folder ready for use.

Enjoy and Have Fun!

If you like using our Homework Charts, then please use our social share buttons to tell your friends and family about them.

Be sure to check out all of the other charts and printables we offer on our site by navigating our menu. We also suggest for you to follow us on Pinterest  for more helpful goodies! We regularly post behavior charts and other useful behavioral tools to our followers.

If you have any ideas on new charts that you would like to see us offer, then please send us a note . We would love to hear from you!

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Home » Printables » Printables for Kids » Free Homework Chart Printable

Free Homework Chart Printable

Looking for ways to get organized? Free printables, like this homework chart printable , are a great first step! They’re a quick and easy way to help get the whole family on the same page.

Getting organized, especially before heading into a new school year, is always an admirable goal. However, it isn’t just Mom and Dad that need to get their game face on… your kiddo probably needs a little help getting into the routine as well. That’s where this homework chart kids printable can really come in handy.

Even if your kiddo was a champ about keeping track of assignments in the past, there’s a pretty good chance that all of the summer sun and fun erased those good habits. So, set him or her up for success with this free homework chart printable .

A daily homework chart , like this one, is a great way to get your child re-adjusted to the notion of doing homework. However, it doesn’t have to just be used at the beginning of the school year. Use this free homework chart printable again and again to make sure your kiddo (and you) stay on track throughout the year whether it’s day one or day 100!

Now, I know that most schools hand out student assignment planners at the beginning of the year, but in my experience, those end up at the bottom of a locker doomed to never see the light of day again. What’s great about this free homework chart printable is that you can easily print one for each child and hang it on the fridge (or in some other highly trafficked area) where it’s super visible. Having the homework chart kids printable where everyone can see it will help ensure accountability.

Plus, if you have more than one kiddo, this is an easy way to see everyone’s assignments without having to flip through multiple planners.

Tip: If your child is using a school planner this daily homework chart is still a good idea because, as mentioned above, they’re a little easier to keep in eyesight. Simply have your child write his or her assignments on the free homework chart printable after school each day. (Writing out the assignment should also help it stick in his or her mind!)

Don’t stop at writing assignments on this free homework chart printable ! As your child finishes up, have him or her cross off completed tasks or place a fun sticker over them.

Download your Free Homework Chart Printable now .

Tip: One way to motivate your child to complete his or her homework without being nagged is to set up rewards. For example, tell your child that if he or she does all of their homework for the week without being reminded and marks it off on the daily homework chart you’ll give him or her a special treat, reward, or privilege. Keep in mind that the free homework chart printable reward does not have to be something super unhealthy or expensive. Rather, it can be something as simple as a special family movie night complete with coconut oil popcorn .

This free homework chart printable is a great way to help your child keep track of school work and learn responsibility. Plus, it’s super simple to use!

Expanded Homework Chart Printable

Sadly, especially as your kids get older, sometimes homework can’t be contained to just Monday through Friday. Nope, sometimes it’s going to spill over into the weekend. 🙁 That’s why I put together this expanded homework chart printable , which includes blocks for Saturday and Sunday.

Tip : Okay, I was a total nerd growing up, but even I know homework over the weekend can be a bummer. If you are incentivizing the printable homework chart so that your child can earn rewards for an academic job well done, consider making assignments done over the weekend worth more.

While this printable homework chart includes space for weekend work, that isn’t the only addition. I also wanted to make it easier to keep track of more details, especially if you have more than one child’s academic progress to oversee. With that in mind, this expanded homework chart printable includes fields for:

• Name – If you only have one kiddo to worry about, this field probably isn’t super pertinent, but any parent who has juggled multiple math assignments in a single day is sure to appreciate a way to easily set copies of this printable homework chart apart from one another!
• Week – Write the start and end dates for the week in this field. This can be especially helpful if you’re printing out multiple copies of this homework chart printable so you can schedule out future homework assignments or study sessions.
• Notes – An extra field for any additional things you may want to keep track of. For example, I might use the notes field on this printable homework chart to jot down things I need to do for my son such as pick up certain materials for his projects, like index cards, or signing a report card or a test to prove I saw it.

Download the expanded homework  chart  printable  now!

What do you think of these homework chart printables? How does your child keep track of homework? Do you offer rewards for completed homework or good grades? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Oh, and if your looking for even more ways to get organized, be sure to check out these 5 FREE printable chore charts or take things to the next level with this upgraded chore chart ! Happy organizing! 🙂

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About Kelli

Kelli Bhattacharjee is the owner of Freebie Finding Mom. When she's not goofing around with her son, she's busy blogging, or just hanging out with the family which usually involves listening to music too loud and having dance parties.

Reader Interactions

March 30, 2015 at 12:42 am

I love the homework charts that would help me so much as im having problems with my kids getting to even do their hmwk at all. I would appreciate sum thank u Lisa M. SMITH

Christie Pepperell says

August 29, 2019 at 5:04 pm

I just don’t know how to make it download. Where is the link?

September 15, 2019 at 9:49 am

Hi Christie, Did you submit your email address and receive the code which you need to enter at the top of this page? https://www.freebiefindingmom.com/printables/ Hope that helps! ? Kelli

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