Celebration · Big Feelings, Warm Lights
Free December Community Read-Alouds & Activities
Rally to Read’s December theme is Celebration and this month, we’re sitting with the full range of feelings that the holiday season brings. Joy, warmth, and togetherness are real. So are overwhelmed, longing, and change. These stories help children name what they feel and find connection through shared time with family and loved ones. This month includes two free author read-aloud videos for teachers and families plus a printable activity packet for Pre-K through 5th grade. All free from Reading Is Fundamental. To preview all monthly themes and read-alouds, download our free calendar.
December Read-Alouds: Coming December 1
This month’s two author read-alouds are coming soon.
The Bakery Dragon and the Giant Cookie
Written and illustrated by Devin Elle Kurtz
Grades: PK – 3rd
Enjoy a whimsical story about friendship, teamwork, and the joy of creating something special together. Filled with warmth, humor, and delicious fun, this charming tale reminds readers that the sweetest celebrations are the ones shared with family, friends, and community.
Emilia Wishing
Written by Belen Medina, Illustrated by Magdalena Mora
Grades: PK – 3rd
This book shares the story of a young girl who wishes for all the things she doesn’t have, including her own bed and nicer clothes. As Emilia discovers the power of hope, love, and community, the story celebrates the joy of coming together and that the greatest gifts are often the people who help make dreams come true.
Free Printable Classroom Resources: Coming December 1
December Activity Packet: Celebration
Big Feelings, Warm Lights. This month’s activity packet includes a recommended book list, emotion-themed classroom and at-home activities, holiday discussion guides, puzzles and games, and featured book activity guides. Free to download and print for classroom and home use.
How to Use These Resources in Your Classroom
These free December read-aloud activities are ideal for social-emotional learning units on identifying and expressing feelings, end-of-year reflection, and culturally inclusive holiday lessons. Use the videos to open a classroom conversation about how the season feels different for different people, then extend with the printable activities for journaling, small group discussion, or take-home family connection.
Free Reading Resources for Every Grade
Looking for more ways to support reading engagement? Our free Resources page has everything you need, printable bookmarks, a classroom poster, a reading log, reading certificates, and book review activities. Spanish-language versions are available for select resources. Educator and family webinars are also available to help you get the most out of Rally to Read all season long. All resources are designed for Pre-K, kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade, with activities that work across multiple reading levels.