KS2 Reading Lists That Make Reading Fun – Even for Reluctant Readers

Summer is a time to unwind—but for younger readers, it can also be a time when reading confidence quietly slips away. That “summer slide” is real, and it can make the return to school in September feel tougher than it needs to be. The good news? A little bit of reading—done right—goes a long way. Here are five simple, realistic reading habits that parents and children can build over the holidays to keep reading fun, stress-free, and effective. 1. Create a “Read Anywhere” Routine Reading doesn’t always need to be at a desk or before bed. Encourage children to read: In the garden On long car journeys At breakfast In a shady spot at the park Make books part of the everyday, just like snacks and sun cream! Keeping a book or e-reader in their bag means there’s always a chance to dive into a story—even for 5–10 minutes. Why it works: It removes the pressure and helps kids see reading as something enjoyable, not just something “schooly.” 2. Let Them Choose (Even If It’s Silly or Slightly Gross!) Graphic novels, joke books, fact books, football magazines—yes, they all count. If a child is choosing what they read, they’re more likely to actually do it. Top tip: Visit your local library and let them pick out 3–5 books, no judgment. You might be surprised what catches their eye. Why it works: Ownership = motivation. A book they love will get read more than one they’re “supposed” to read. 3. Build a Simple “Reading Tracker” (With Rewards!) Create a fun tracker for each book or chapter read. This could be: A colouring-in chart A sticker reward system A paper chain that grows with each book Add a small prize every 5–10 reads—a trip to the park, a new bookmark, or a treat of their choice. Why it works: It turns reading into a game with visual progress, which helps build a habit through consistency. 4. Read Aloud Together—Yes, Even for Older Children Many KS2 and even KS3 students still enjoy being read to. Choose a book you’ll both enjoy and take turns reading a few pages out loud each day. You’ll be modelling fluency, expression, and vocabulary—all while bonding. Why it works: It keeps reading social and helps boost comprehension through discussion and shared experience. 5. Talk About Books Like They’re Films When a child finishes a book, ask them: What was the best part? Who was your favourite character? Would you recommend it to a friend?  Make books feel like stories worth talking about, not just assignments to tick off. Why it works: Encouraging children to reflect on what they’ve read builds comprehension and emotional connection to books. Final Thought: It Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect—It Just Has to Happen Reading over the holidays isn’t about setting huge goals or finishing a library’s worth of books. It’s about gently keeping the brain ticking over, feeding imagination, and giving kids a head start for September. If you’d like personalised support with reading, phonics, comprehension or confidence, our tutoring team is here to help—online or in person. Just drop us a message!

SATs are done and dusted — well done to all the Year 6 pupils who’ve worked so hard! After all that effort, it’s time to celebrate and enjoy a well-deserved break. But while rest is important, keeping the learning momentum going can make a big difference in helping children stay confident and curious before they head off to secondary school. The good news? Learning after SATs doesn’t have to feel like schoolwork. In fact, the summer holidays are the perfect time to explore fun, creative, and meaningful ways to keep young minds active. Here are some engaging, low-pressure ideas to help your Year 6 child continue learning this summer — without even realising it! 1. Dive into Books They Love Reading is one of the easiest (and most enjoyable!) ways to keep brains active. Let your child choose books that excite them — whether it's adventure stories, funny comics, mysteries, or fascinating non-fiction. Try this: Visit the local library and join a summer reading challenge. Listen to audiobooks together during car journeys. Encourage them to write a short review or draw a scene from each book. 2. Real-World Maths Practice Maths isn’t just about worksheets — it’s everywhere in everyday life. Use the summer break to show how useful (and fun!) maths can be. Fun activities: Get them to help with measuring ingredients while baking. Ask them to budget for a day out or plan a picnic using prices and deals. Play games like darts, Yahtzee, Monopoly, or online maths puzzles. 3. Get Creative with Writing With no pressure from exams or assessments, summer is a great time for children to enjoy writing just for fun. Ideas to spark creativity: Keep a summer journal or write postcards to friends and family. Invent a comic book or short story. Create a script and film a mini play with friends or siblings. 4. Explore Science Through Nature Nature offers endless learning opportunities. Whether it’s in the garden, local parks, or the beach, outdoor activities can boost curiosity and scientific thinking. Try: Keeping a nature journal — drawing insects, plants, or birds spotted. Creating a DIY weather station or bug hotel. Growing something from seed and tracking its progress. 5. Learn a New Skill The summer holidays are the perfect time to pick up something new — and learning outside the classroom can be just as valuable. Fun new skills to try: Cooking a simple meal from start to finish. Learning to type, sew, or do basic DIY. Starting a coding project using free tools like Scratch. 6. Keep Talking About Big Ideas Children at this age love to ask questions and share opinions. Use downtime to chat about interesting topics, current events, or “big questions.” Good conversation starters: “What would you do if you were Prime Minister for a day?” “What invention do you think the world needs?” “If you could travel anywhere, where would you go and why?” 7. Try Light, Flexible Tutoring S ome families find that a weekly online session can help keep structure in place and fill any gaps before secondary school. Summer tutoring can: Build confidence in key areas like writing or reasoning. Prepare for the move to Year 7 with gentle support. Keep routines in place with short, engaging sessions. Final Thoughts The summer after SATs is a special time — one last stretch of primary school freedom before big changes ahead. While it’s important to relax, keeping learning alive through fun, meaningful activities can help your child head into Year 7 feeling prepared and positive. Need Support This Summer? At Empower Tutoring, we offer friendly, flexible summer sessions tailored to each child’s needs — whether they want to boost a skill, stay sharp, or simply enjoy learning again. Get in touch today to find out how we can support your child’s summer learning journey.

When it comes to preparing for exams, revision isn’t just important — it’s essential. But not all revision is created equal. Spending hours staring at your notes isn’t the best way to get ready for GCSEs, A-levels, or any important exam. Instead, smart, active revision techniques can make a huge difference to your confidence, understanding, and final results. Here’s how you can make your revision powerful and effective — and how parents can help too! Why Revision Matters Revision isn’t just about memorising facts. It’s about understanding topics deeply, spotting patterns, making connections, and building the confidence to tackle any question in the exam room. Good revision strengthens your memory and reduces stress when exam day arrives. Techniques That Really Work 1. Active Recall Instead of reading notes over and over, test yourself regularly. Cover up the information and try to remember it. Use flashcards (apps like Quizlet are brilliant). Create mini quizzes for yourself. Teach someone else what you’ve learned — if you can explain it clearly, you know it well! 2. Spaced Repetition Don’t cram! Your brain remembers information better when you review it at spaced-out intervals. Plan your revision timetable with regular review sessions for each topic. Go over subjects multiple times over weeks, not all at once. 3. Practice Papers There’s no better way to prepare than practising real exam questions. Time yourself to get used to working under pressure. Mark your answers honestly and review any mistakes carefully . 4. Mind Mapping Mind maps are great for visual learners. Draw diagrams linking ideas together. Use colours and images to make the information more memorable. 5. Break It Down Large topics can feel overwhelming. Break subjects into small, manageable chunks. Set goals like "Revise Photosynthesis" instead of "Revise Biology." 6. Active Environments Your study space matters! Find a quiet, tidy area with no distractions. Switch off your phone (or use apps like Forest to help you stay focused). How Parents Can Support Revision Parents can play a big role without taking over. Here's how: Help build a realistic revision timetable and encourage short breaks. Be encouraging , not pushy — praise effort, not just results. Provide (healthy) snacks, quiet spaces, and emotional support. Be patient — stress can make teens a bit more irritable! Final Thoughts Revision isn’t about working harder — it’s about working smarter. By using active techniques, building good habits, and getting the right support, students can boost their confidence and feel properly prepared when exams arrive. Remember: every little bit of consistent, focused revision builds up to big success. Good luck — you’ve got this!

The Key Stage 2 (KS2) SATs are an important milestone for Year 6 pupils in England. These tests, taken in May, assess children’s skills in English (reading, grammar, punctuation, and spelling) and mathematics . While the tests are important, they should not be a source of stress. With the right preparation, students can approach their SATs with confidence. Here’s a helpful guide for both students and parents. 1. Understanding the KS2 SATs The KS2 SATs are divided into the following papers: English Reading – Comprehension questions based on different texts. English Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling (GPS) – A test covering grammar and punctuation, plus a spelling section. Mathematics – Two arithmetic and two reasoning papers. Although schools prepare students thoroughly, extra support at home can make a big difference. 2. Creating a Study Plan A structured approach is key. Parents and students should work together to create a revision timetable , ensuring each subject gets attention without overwhelming the child. Break study sessions into short, focused periods (e.g., 20, 30 or 40 minutes max). Prioritise weaker areas but maintain a balanced approach . Include regular breaks and fun activities to keep motivation high. 3. Using Past Papers and Practice Questions Practising with past SATs papers helps students become familiar with the format and question styles - these can be downloaded free online here . Set realistic time limits to improve time management. Review mistakes to understand concepts better. Use online resources and workbooks for additional practice. 4. Strengthening English Skills For the reading test : Encourage daily reading of different texts (fiction, non-fiction, poetry). Ask questions about what they read to check understanding BBC Bitesize Reading has some useful resources around reading and discussing reading. For grammar and punctuation : Use online quizzes and games, for example BBC bitesize has some great resources Revise key grammar rules (e.g., sentence structure, verb tenses). For spelling : Practise common spelling lists used in KS2 SATs. Use fun activities like spelling games and flashcards. Try this online spelling activity from Spelling Ninja . 5. Mastering Maths Practise mental arithmetic daily (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division). CGP Books have some free online 10 minute maths tests Focus on key areas like fractions, decimals, and percentages. Solve real-world maths problems (e.g., budgeting pocket money, measuring ingredients in recipes). 6. Staying Positive and Managing Stress Encourage a growth mindset : Mistakes help us learn. Ensure they get plenty of sleep and regular exercise . Use breathing exercises and relaxation techniques to ease anxiety. Celebrate progress, not just results. 7. Practical Tips for SATs Week Ensure your child gets a good night’s sleep before each test. Provide a healthy breakfast for energy and focus. Arrive at school on time and with the right equipment . Encourage a calm and positive attitude . Final Thoughts Preparing for KS2 SATs doesn’t have to be stressful. With a structured approach, regular practice, and a positive mindset , students can feel ready to tackle their exams with confidence. Remember: SATs are just one part of a child’s learning journey, and doing their best is what truly matters! Good luck from Empower Tutoring to all the Year 6 students taking their SATs this year!

Learning maths doesn’t have to be all about worksheets and textbooks. Board games are a fantastic way to engage children in mathematical thinking, helping to develop key skills like number recognition, problem-solving, logical reasoning, and strategic planning. Whether you're looking for games for younger children just starting their maths journey or teenagers needing to sharpen their skills, here are some of the best board games to support maths learning for ages 5 to 16. For Ages 5-7: Early Number Skills 1. Sum Swamp Focus: Addition & subtraction A fun adventure game where players solve simple addition and subtraction problems to move through the swamp. 2. Snakes and Ladders Focus: Counting & number recognition A classic game that reinforces counting skills and introduces the concept of probability through dice rolling. 3. Bus Stop Focus: Basic addition & subtraction Players add and subtract passengers as they travel around a bus route, making it a great visual way to reinforce simple maths. For Ages 8-11: Multiplication & Problem-Solving 4. Times Tables Heroes Focus: Multiplication practice A great way for children to reinforce their times tables in an interactive and enjoyable way. 5. Monopoly (Junior and Classic Versions) Focus: Money management & mental maths Encourages counting, handling money, and basic addition and subtraction in a real-world context. 6. Prime Climb Focus: Multiplication, division & prime numbers A strategic game that enhances number fluency by encouraging players to multiply, divide, and recognise prime numbers. For Ages 12-16: Advanced Maths & Strategic Thinking 7. Risk Focus: Probability & strategic thinking Players must evaluate risks and probabilities when attacking or defending territories, sharpening their decision-making skills. 8. Catan Focus: Probability, resource management & strategic planning Encourages mathematical thinking through resource allocation and probability-based decision-making. 9. The Game of Life Focus: Money management & real-life maths Helps older children and teenagers understand financial concepts, probability, and decision-making in a fun and engaging way. 10. Blokus Focus: Geometry & spatial reasoning Develops spatial awareness and problem-solving skills as players strategically place pieces on the board to block opponents. Final Thoughts Board games offer an enjoyable and engaging way to reinforce key mathematical concepts, making learning feel like play rather than work. Whether it’s simple counting games for younger children or strategic decision-making games for teenagers, incorporating board games into your routine can help children develop confidence in maths in a relaxed and social setting. Looking for more educational resources? At Empower Tutoring, we provide expert advice and resources to support maths learning at every stage. Get in touch today!

As parents, we all want the best for our children and their education. However, it can sometimes be challenging to determine if your child is struggling academically and might benefit from additional support. Whether they're falling behind in class, feeling overwhelmed, or losing confidence, early intervention can make a significant difference. Here are some key signs to watch out for that might indicate your child needs extra academic support. Declining Grades One of the most obvious indicators that your child may need additional support is a noticeable decline in their grades. If their performance has dropped over several terms or they struggle with specific subjects consistently, it may be time to consider additional tutoring to help bridge any learning gaps. Lack of Enthusiasm for Learning If your child once enjoyed school but now dreads it, it could be a sign that they are finding certain aspects challenging. A loss of enthusiasm for learning, especially in previously enjoyed subjects, might indicate that they need extra support to regain their confidence and interest. Struggling with Homework If completing homework is becoming a daily battle, with your child spending excessive amounts of time on tasks or avoiding them altogether, it could signal that they are having difficulties understanding the material. This is a clear sign they might benefit from extra guidance outside of school hours. Low Self-Esteem and Confidence A noticeable dip in self-confidence or frequent expressions of frustration about their abilities can indicate academic struggles. If your child frequently says things like "I'm not good at this" or "I can't do it," it may be time to provide additional support to help them rebuild their self-esteem. Teacher Feedback Teachers spend a significant amount of time with your child and can provide valuable insights into their academic progress. If their teacher has expressed concerns about their performance, concentration, or participation in class, it might be worth considering extra academic support to address these issues. Difficulty Keeping Up with Peers If your child finds it challenging to keep up with their classmates, it can lead to feelings of frustration and isolation. Falling behind can often go unnoticed until a child expresses feelings of being "left out" or struggles to complete tasks that others find easy. Behavioural Changes Academic struggles can sometimes manifest in behavioural changes such as increased irritability, avoidance of school-related discussions, or even acting out in class. If you notice changes in your child’s behaviour that seem linked to schoolwork, it may be a sign they need additional support. Struggles with Basic Skills Difficulties with core skills such as reading, writing, or numeracy, even after repeated efforts, can indicate a need for targeted support. These foundational skills are crucial for academic success, and additional tutoring can provide focused intervention. Lack of Organisation and Time Management If your child regularly forgets assignments, struggles to manage their time, or finds it hard to stay organised, they may be overwhelmed by their workload. Tutoring can help them develop better study habits and organisational skills. Physical Signs of Stress Headaches, stomach aches, and trouble sleeping can sometimes be linked to academic stress. If your child frequently complains of these symptoms around school-related tasks, it might be time to explore additional academic support. What to Do Next If you've noticed any of these signs in your child, it's important to address them early. Start by having an open conversation with your child about their challenges and concerns. Speak with their teachers to gain a better understanding of their academic progress and consider seeking professional tutoring support tailored to their needs. At Empower Tutoring, we provide personalised tutoring programmes designed to help children overcome their challenges and thrive academically. Get in touch with us today if you would like to find out how we can support your child’s learning journey.  Supporting your child’s education is one of the best investments you can make in their future.

As the New Year begins, many students and parents set ambitious academic goals to ensure a successful school year. While striving for the very best academic progress and achievement is important, it’s equally vital to maintain a healthy balance between studying and well-being. Neglecting self-care can lead to burnout, stress, and a decline in performance. Here we share some practical strategies to help students thrive academically while also prioritising their mental and physical health in the year ahead. 1. Set Realistic Goals Begin the year by setting achievable academic goals. Break larger objectives, such as improving grades or acing an assessment or exam, into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach reduces overwhelm and creates a clear path to success. Celebrate small wins along the way to stay motivated and build confidence. 2. Create a Balanced Schedule A well-structured schedule is key to balancing academics and well-being. Allocate specific times for studying, extracurricular activities, and relaxation. Make sure your timetable includes breaks between study sessions to recharge your mind. Using tools like planners or time-management apps can help keep you organized. 3. Prioritize Sleep Quality sleep is essential for optimal learning and mental health. Studies show that students who get enough sleep perform better academically and are more emotionally resilient. Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep each night and establish a consistent bedtime routine to support a healthy sleep cycle. 4. Stay Physically Active Physical activity is not just good for the body but also for the mind. Regular exercise can reduce stress, improve concentration, and boost energy levels. Even a 20-minute walk, yoga session, or team sport can make a significant difference. Encourage movement during study breaks to stay refreshed. 5. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, or journaling, can help students manage stress and maintain focus. Encourage setting aside a few minutes each day for mindfulness practices to cultivate a sense of calm and clarity. Additionally, learning how to manage time effectively can alleviate the pressure of tight deadlines. 6. Maintain a Healthy Diet What you eat has a direct impact on your cognitive function and energy levels. Incorporate a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugary snacks, which can lead to energy crashes. Staying hydrated is equally important. 7. Seek Support When Needed It’s important to know when to ask for help. Whether it’s academic challenges or personal issues, reaching out to teachers, tutors, family members, or friends can provide valuable support. Professional resources, such as school counsellors or therapists, are also available for more serious concerns. 8. Make Time for Hobbies and Interests Engaging in hobbies or creative activities is a great way to relax and recharge. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, or reading for pleasure, these activities provide a much-needed break from academic demands and contribute to overall happiness. 9. Reflect and Adjust Regularly Life is dynamic, and so are your priorities. Take time to reflect on what’s working and what isn’t. Adjust your routine and goals as needed to maintain balance. Flexibility is key to navigating the challenges of school life while staying healthy and focused. Final Thoughts Balancing academic learning and well-being is not a one-time resolution but an ongoing process. By adopting these strategies, students can build a sustainable routine that supports both their educational aspirations and overall happiness. Remember, success isn’t just about grades—it’s also about feeling fulfilled, healthy, and ready to tackle whatever challenges come your way. Here’s to a balanced, productive, and joyful New Year!

Christmas is a wonderful time to bring the family together, and there’s no better way to create laughter and memories than with a few festive games. If you’re looking for simple, low-cost activities that everyone can enjoy, we’ve got you covered. These games don’t require fancy equipment—just a little creativity, a sprinkle of Christmas spirit, and plenty of enthusiasm. 1. Christmas Charades A classic game that never fails to bring laughter! With no props needed, it’s all about using your acting skills to mime festive phrases. How to Play: Write down Christmas-themed ideas on slips of paper (like “building a snowman” or “decorating a Christmas tree”) and take turns acting them out while the rest of the family guesses. Why It’s Great: It’s completely free and fun for all ages. Plus, it encourages everyone to get involved, even the shyest family members. 2. 20 Questions: Christmas Edition A simple guessing game that only requires quick thinking. How to Play: One player thinks of a Christmas-related item, like “reindeer” or “mince pie,” and others take turns asking yes/no questions to figure it out. They have 20 questions to guess correctly! Why It’s Great: This game sparks curiosity and problem-solving skills while being easy to play anywhere. 3. Who Am I? (Christmas Style) This game guarantees giggles and works perfectly around the dinner table. How to Play: Write the names of Christmas characters (e.g., Santa Claus, The Grinch, or Frosty the Snowman) on sticky notes or scraps of paper. Each person sticks one to their forehead without looking, and they must ask yes/no questions to figure out who they are. Why It’s Great: It’s silly, requires no setup, and encourages creativity and interaction. 4. Christmas Scavenger Hunt Turn your home into a festive treasure hunt! How to Play: Hide small Christmas-related items (like baubles, candy canes, or tinsel) around the house. Create a list of items for everyone to find. You can even add clues or riddles for extra fun. Why It’s Great: It’s active, adaptable for all ages, and gets the kids moving before they settle in for a Christmas feast. 5. The Drawing Game Perfect for families who love to laugh at their artistic (or not-so-artistic!) skills. How to Play: Give each player a piece of paper and a pencil. Call out a festive item (like “Christmas tree” or “snowman”) for everyone to draw—without looking at their paper! Reveal the masterpieces at the end for a good laugh. Why It’s Great: This game is free, quick to set up, and always delivers funny results. 6. Pass the Parcel (Budget-Friendly Version) A childhood favourite with a festive twist! How to Play: Wrap a small item in layers of newspaper or wrapping paper. For each layer, add a challenge or forfeit (e.g., “sing a carol” or “name three Christmas films”). Pass the parcel around to music, and when it stops, the person holding it unwraps a layer. Why It’s Great: It’s nostalgic, fun, and can be done on a shoestring budget using items you already have at home. 7. The Name Game (Festive Twist) A quick-thinking game that’s perfect for all ages. How to Play: Choose a category (e.g., Christmas songs, films, or characters). Each player takes turns naming something in that category without repeating. If someone hesitates too long, they’re out! Why It’s Great: It’s simple, free, and encourages everyone to stay sharp. 8. Christmas Simon Says A festive spin on the classic Simon Says. How to Play: The leader gives instructions, such as “Simon says, pretend to wrap a gift” or “Simon says, act like a reindeer.” If the leader doesn’t say “Simon says” before the instruction, players who follow it are out. Why It’s Great: This game is active, perfect for younger children, and requires no materials. 9. Snowball Toss Bring the winter fun indoors with this energetic game. How to Play: Crumple up pieces of white paper to create “snowballs.” Set up a bucket or bowl as a target, and take turns throwing snowballs into the container from a distance. Why It’s Great: It’s simple, free, and great for burning off extra energy after all those mince pies. 10. Christmas Story Round A creative storytelling game that sparks the imagination. How to Play: Start a festive story with one sentence, like “It was Christmas Eve, and Santa’s sleigh broke down.” Each person adds one sentence to continue the story. Keep going until you’ve crafted a wild and funny tale! Why It’s Great: It’s free, encourages teamwork, and is perfect for showcasing your family’s sense of humour. The best Christmas games are the ones that bring people together. With these simple and free ideas, you can fill your home with joy and laughter without spending a penny. So, gather around, let the festive fun begin, and make this Christmas one to remember! What’s your favourite family game to play at Christmas? Share your ideas in the comments or on social media—we’d love to hear them! Wishing you all a very Merry Holiday Season and a Happy New Year!

A quick guide to Emotional Intelligence and why it is important for children