In much of the United States, a reading log is required for those who choose to home educate. This is something parents should keep together in their child’s home education portfolio. No matter what type of homeschooler you are, keeping a reading log can be a powerful tool for children and parents. Here are five reasons why it’s important to document the reading happening in your home education program:
1. It Builds a Habit of Reading
Many homeschoolers love reading! Reading is an essential part of life and education. Yet, not all children are self-motivated readers. When kids see their reading listed and celebrated, they’re more motivated to keep going. A log can be as simple as jotting down book titles or as creative as drawing covers and adding star ratings. Make sure to congratulate your children each time they read a new book and encourage them to keep reading!
2. It Tracks Progress Over Time
A reading log offers a clear view of how much your child is growing in reading. You’ll be able to look back and see improvements in reading level, interest shifts, and even how quickly they’re finishing books. I personally have my children also do reviews of the books they read themselves so I know what they are learning and how they are comprehending the stories they are reading.
3. It Encourages Accountability
Knowing they’ll record what they read helps some kids stay on track, especially independent readers. It also gives parents an easy way to check in and discuss books without hovering.
4. It Supports Language Arts Skills
A reading log can include short summaries, new vocabulary, or favorite quotes—making it a great launchpad for writing, comprehension, and critical thinking.
5. It Creates a Memory Book of Learning
Over time, the reading log becomes a keepsake—a snapshot of your child’s literary journey. It tells a story of its own and may even inspire future reading choices.
Reading logs don’t have to be boring or rigid. With a little creativity, they can become one of your favorite homeschool tools.
To make things easy for you, I created a reading log and book review documents for you to use! You can purchase and download directly from my website. Print papers and have your children write their review after reading. Discuss the books they read and then place together in a folder. They will enjoy looking back at their thoughts and it will be easy for you to document learning.
Purchase and Download Documents Here: Reading Log & Review
