It's sparking a love of reading that will last a lifetime.
For decades, I've specialized in guiding children through engaging, interactive experiences designed to build confidence and improve critical thinking skills and comprehension, making reading an exciting adventure. I've used my best strategies over the past three decades and created Reading for Life.
My mission at Reading for Life is to help young learners build reading confidence to discover the joy of reading and carry it with them for life.
Reading for Life Session (40 min)
In this core session, young readers meet with Mr. Jeffrey in their small reading group. Together, they’ll check in on their current book, share updates on their reading challenge progress, and dive into an engaging mini-lesson focused on a key reading skill. Each session also spotlights different genres, authors, and exciting titles to broaden every child’s reading world. To top it off, there may be a fun literacy-themed game or even a surprise guest!
Reading Celebrations (40 min)
Let’s cheer them on! This joyful session is all about recognizing students for finishing books, reaching reading goals, and rocking those reading challenges. Young readers are welcome to share their Beanstack dashboards and celebrate their progress. Expect shoutouts, smiles, and lots of book-loving energy!
Author & Illustrator Spotlight (40 min)
Step into the world of real-life storytellers! In this special event, meet a published author or illustrator who will share their creative journey, read from one of their books, and answer student questions. Families will also have the chance to order signed copies—a great way to bring the experience home!
Fun Titles (Book Commercials!) (40 min)
What’s new? What’s classic? What’s flying off the shelves? In this fast-paced session, Mr. Jeffrey shares can’t-miss books that kids love—plus hidden gems you’ll want to check out. Students can jump in to recommend their own favorites, too. A great way to build your next reading list!
Book Club (40 min)
Book Club members gather to dive deep into a shared story. Mr. Jeffrey leads meaningful discussions that spark curiosity, connection, and critical thinking. From talking about characters to exploring big ideas, this session turns reading into a rich, shared experience. Occasionally, authors or special guests may join the conversation!
Parent Hour with Mr. Jeffrey (40 min)
Grab a coffee and join Mr. Jeffrey and fellow parents for a relaxed and supportive conversation. Bring your questions and challenges around reading at home—Mr. Jeffrey will offer expert tips, creative ideas, and strategies that really work. This is your space to connect and feel inspired.
Beanstack Support (20 min)
Need help with Beanstack? Whether you’re logging minutes, tracking books, or joining a challenge, this quick session is your go-to guide. Students and parents are invited to get hands-on help so they can confidently use this powerful reading tool.
Student Onboarding (40 min)
New to Reading for Life? This friendly kickoff meeting is just for your child! Mr. Jeffrey will help them get set up, explain how the program works, and start building a personalized reading path. It’s a relaxed and encouraging way to start their reading adventure!
Comprehension & Meaning-Making
► Making Inferences – Learning to read between the lines and understand what’s not explicitly said.
► Identifying Main Ideas & Details – Grasping the heart of what they're reading.
► Summarizing & Synthesizing – Pulling together meaning and connecting ideas across texts.
Reading Identity & Joy
► Questioning & Curiosity – Encouraging kids to wonder, ask questions, and stay engaged.
► Applying Knowledge – Connecting what they read to their life and the world around them.
► Building Confidence as a Reader – Developing a sense of “I can read this — and I like it.”
Critical Thinking & Reflection
► Recognizing Author’s Purpose & Tone – Understanding why the author wrote the text and how it feels.
► Understanding Perspective & Bias – Thinking critically about different viewpoints in a text.
► Evaluating Arguments & Evidence – Judging what’s true, trustworthy, or worth questioning.
These sets of skills are critical for developing deeper comprehension, fostering independent thinking, and engaging meaningfully with literature, academic texts, and real-world information.
Reading Practice is the Start to Lifelong Reading
Reading practice is reading great books that connect with the reader, creating meaningful and engaging experiences. A personal connection is developed when readers see themselves reflected in book characters.
Reading nurtures empathy and a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives, essential to personal and academic growth. Engaging with great books cultivates readers who read for both joy and insight.
Reasons why Reading for Life believes every child deserves to unlock their full reading potential:
✦ Reading opens the door to empathy and understanding, helping kids see the world through others' eyes.
✦ Reading strengthens focus and concentration, skills that empower kids in school and beyond.
✦ Reading inspires a lifetime of learning and curiosity, shaping confident, creative thinkers.
