St. Mary's Junior National School, Rowlagh, Dublin 22

Reading Rockets Challenge - Building a Love of Reading

28th Apr 2026

We are delighted to be running our Reading Rockets Challenge in school. This initiative is designed to encourage children to develop a love of reading by making it a fun and enjoyable part of their daily routine.

Why Reading for Pleasure Matters
Reading for enjoyment plays a crucial role in a child’s development. It is one of the strongest indicators of future success and wellbeing. By fostering a positive attitude towards reading, we aim to support children in building confidence, imagination and lifelong learning habits.

How the Challenge Works
Each child has received a Reading Rockets chart to help track their progress. Here’s how it works:

  • Children earn one step on their chart each day they read at home for fun (a minimum of 5 minutes counts)
  • A parent or guardian signs or initials the chart to confirm the reading
  • Teachers will award a star sticker for each completed step
  • Children may read independently or with an adult
  • This challenge is in addition to regular reading homework, which will continue as normal
  • Reading can take place on school days, weekends and during mid-term breaks
  • Only one step per day may be completed
  • Charts should be kept safely in your child’s school bag so teachers can update them
  • As children move along their charts, they will reach milestones and earn rewards along the way.

Choosing What to Read
Children are encouraged to read a wide variety of materials, including:

  • Books they already have at home
  • Books from the local library
  • Books borrowed from school

A Whole-Class Effort
Alongside individual progress, there will also be a whole-class competition, where classes work together to reach the top of the Reading Rockets display in school. The winning class will earn a special party once they reach the stars!

If you require any support, advice, or access to reading materials, please contact your child’s teacher. Thank you for your continued support.

Ms Naughter
Literacy Co-ordinator