If you’re looking to bring fresh ideas into your lesson plans, these favorite books for November are a great way to connect to history, gratitude, and the fall season while tying in engaging cross-curricular activities. I’ll even show you how to make some of your favorite Thanksgiving books connect with a hands-on STEM challenge.

I’ve also included a link to my November activities opt-in, connecting a popular read-aloud, Plump and Perky Turkey. Whether you’re planning for close reading, writing time, or some creative morning work, these books will give you plenty of options that are both fun and purposeful.

Why Favorite Read Alouds for November Matter

Using favorite read alouds for November is a great way to add depth to your classroom routines without overloading your schedule. This time of year naturally invites conversations around gratitude, family, and national holidays. This can lead to powerful connections in your classroom. I love taking these themes and helping my students explore them through character traits, story elements, and meaningful discussion.

Books like The Poppy Lady, which tells the story of Moina Belle Michael, offer a good introduction to Veterans Day and provide context in a kid-friendly way. Others, like Squanto’s Journey, help highlight the Native American culture often left out of the more traditional history of Thanksgiving lessons (more on this below!). Both are wonderful books for helping our students think critically and empathetically.

Maybe it’s your students’ first time learning about the first Thanksgiving, or maybe they’re revisiting a familiar character like the old lady who swallowed a pie. Either way, these books support older students and younger ones alike in developing a richer understanding of seasonal traditions.

Favorite Read-Alouds for November That Spark STEM and Storytelling

One of my favorite ways to bring the fall season to life in the classroom is by combining stories with STEM. These Thanksgiving STEM activities help my students think critically, work collaboratively, and connect what they read to what they create. And. . . the last week or two before the Thanksgiving break is the perfect time to pair some hands-on STEM with a great November book. Whether it’s designing a table or building a turkey launcher, there’s something about hands-on problem-solving that takes a great read-aloud to the next level.

Here’s how each STEM activity works, including favorite read-alouds for November that pair well with each activity:

STEM Challenge 1: Thanksgiving Feast – Build a Table That Can Hold the Most Food

In this challenge, your students design and construct a Thanksgiving table using classroom supplies that can support the most weight. This is tested by placing books on top. It’s a perfect opportunity to introduce concepts like balance, load distribution, and measurement. It’s also fun to see whose table holds up and whose topples over!

Pair this activity with Stone Soup, a classic picture book and great story about strangers who teach a village the value of sharing. The message connects beautifully to the idea of a Thanksgiving dinner where everyone contributes. It’s also a great setup for talking about story elements, like setting and theme, while tying in teamwork from the STEM challenge.

STEM Challenge 2: Mayflower Voyage – Build a Boat That Can Carry Pilgrims Across the Ocean

In this challenge, your students create a boat that can float and hold as many “Pilgrims” (pennies, bears, or small cubes) as possible before sinking. It’s a great time to explore buoyancy, surface area, and trial and error through building and testing. You can guide your students through redesigns based on what worked and what didn’t.

I recommend reading If You Sailed on the Mayflower in 1620 to lay the groundwork. This great book gives students a solid foundation for the journey the Pilgrims took to reach Plymouth Rock. It answers common questions, includes detailed information on the first Thanksgiving, and works well as a good introduction to the broader historical unit. For a more reflective tone, Squanto’s Journey by Joseph Bruchac adds meaningful insight into Native American culture and cooperation during the early settlement.

STEM Challenge 3: Native American Homes – Design a Weatherproof Shelter

In this activity, your students are tasked with building a Native American home that can stand up to simulated weather. To make the different elements, I make wind from a hair dryer, rain from a spray bottle, or snow from crushed ice. It connects to science concepts, like insulation and structural design, while honoring family traditions and survival strategies of the past.

Before building, try reading The Very First Americans by Cara Ashrose. It gives a kid-friendly look into Native Americans, exploring the different materials and homes used by tribes across the country. It’s a great way to bring authenticity and respect to the conversation, especially for upper elementary students who are ready to think deeper. You could also read The Legend of the Bluebonnet by Tomie dePaola to explore themes of bravery and weather through a cultural lens.

STEM Challenge 4: Turkey Escape – Build a Turkey Launcher

This one’s a student favorite! Tom the Turkey needs to escape town and fast. Your students need to design a turkey launcher that propels him to safety. Once they launch him, they practice measuring how far he can go and improving their designs with each test.

The perfect read-aloud for this? Turkey Trouble by Wendi Silvano. In this adorable book, a turkey disguises himself as a variety of different animals to avoid becoming the main course at the Thanksgiving feast. It’s filled with humor, has a familiar character, and inspires so many creative writing responses. It’s also a great way to spark brainstorming before your students begin planning their escape strategies for Tom.

More Favorite Read-Alouds for November

If you’re teaching younger readers or looking for titles that are just right for your kiddos, these favorite read-alouds for November are sure to bring laughter, learning, and plenty of seasonal charm to your classroom. These books celebrate friendship, gratitude, history, and the joy of family traditions. All things that make this time of year so special.

Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet

This nonfiction book has beautiful illustrations that introduce your students to Tony Sarg, the creator of the balloons in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. With vivid artwork and a playful tone, the book shows how one inventor’s imagination helped shape a treasured national holiday tradition. It’s a fantastic way to blend history, art, and STEM. Plus, your kiddos will love hearing the story behind the parade they’ve seen on TV.

Thank You, Sarah: The Woman Who Saved Thanksgiving by Laurie Halse Anderson

This great book shares the true story of Sarah Hale. She spent decades writing letters and campaigning to make Thanksgiving a national holiday. Her persistence finally paid off when President Lincoln made it official. The book is both empowering and entertaining. It shows that even one voice can make a big difference. It’s a great introduction to persuasive writing and history all at once.

The Littlest Pilgrim by Brandi Dougherty

This adorable story follows Mini, a little girl who wants to help prepare for the Thanksgiving feast but keeps being told she’s too small. The gentle message about kindness and finding your purpose is perfect for your younger readers. Plus, it’s a sweet jumping-off point for writing prompts about how we help our family members or show kindness to others.

Bear Says Thanks by Karma Wilson

Told in rhyme, this sweet book follows Bear as he wants to throw a big meal for his friends. He realizes he has nothing to offer. Luckily, all his woodland pals arrive with food, creating a heartwarming story about friendship, community, and gratitude. It’s a cozy choice for any morning meeting or reading circle during the fall season.

The Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie by Alison Jackson

This hilarious book is a seasonal spin on a classic format, with the old lady swallowing everything from a pie to a turkey to a pot. It’s silly, repetitive, and packed with language patterns perfect for story element discussions or sequencing activities. Your students will be quoting it for the rest of the week!

Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie by Jack Bishop

Peyton is a picky eater who’s dreading Thanksgiving until she discovers a perfect pie that just might change her mind. This adorable book is full of rich vocabulary and subtle messages about trying new things and keeping an open mind. It’s a great lead-in to class pie graphs, descriptive writing, or even a classroom taste test.

Grab Your Free November Activities!

Ready to bring even more fun and learning into your classroom? You can get a whole set of ready-to-use activities when you sign up for my free November Activities resource! This pack is designed to give your students a chance to respond through writing, creativity, and critical thinking. Inside, you’ll find an open-ended “How to Make…” activity that lets your students share family food traditions and a pie graph practice page.

One of my favorite pieces in the pack is the How to Catch a Plump and Perky Turkey writing prompt. It’s a student favorite every year! After reading a favorite Thanksgiving book, like A Plump and Perky Turkey (it’s the perfect book for this writing activity), your students use the fun template to write their own plan for catching a sneaky bird. It’s perfect for morning work, writing block, or a quick and meaningful close reading follow-up.

Help Your Students Make Connections With These Favorite Read-Alouds for November

Whether you’re reading about a clever turkey, exploring the history behind the first Thanksgiving, or diving into a STEM challenge that brings the story to life, these favorite read-alouds for November offer so many opportunities to engage your students in meaningful, memorable ways. The fall season is full of chances to spark curiosity, celebrate kindness, and connect through shared stories. I hope these book pairings and related activities help you create a classroom filled with joy, laughter, and so much fun learning for November.

Save for Later

Don’t let these ideas slip away! Save this post to your November classroom ideas or Thanksgiving activities board on Pinterest so you’ll have a go-to list of favorite read-alouds for November right when you need them. Whether it’s planning for next week or next year, you’ll be glad you saved these fall picture books!

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The post Favorite Read Alouds for November for Teachers and Students appeared first on Elementary Island.

Fill Your November Lesson Plans

There’s no better way to keep your students engaged and learning in November than with a variety of fun and engaging November activities for elementary students. These activities weave in the themes and holidays while ensuring students are working on key academic skills. Ready to fill your November lesson plans? Here are 9 classroom tested and highly recommended November activities that your students will love!

1. Thanksgiving Fun Packet for November Activities

My Thanksgiving Fun Packet is a wonderful tool that I use throughout November. It’s packed with 21 engaging activities designed for second graders. It can be easily adapted for different grade levels. The activities cover a wide range of skills, from reading comprehension to math. I did this to make it a great way to review key concepts before the holiday break​.

What I love about this packet is that it’s a fun way to reinforce skills while keeping our students engaged. For example, the word problems and critical thinking puzzles challenge our students to apply what they’ve learned in new ways. I often use this packet during morning work or as part of our November stations. And. . . it’s perfect for early finishers who need meaningful activities to stay busy. I even let students work on some of the activities in pairs or small groups, which encourages collaboration. This resource also fits well with holiday-themed bulletin boards or classroom decorations, making the classroom feel festive throughout the month!

2. Fall Craft Academic Pack for November Activities

Incorporating crafts into November activities for elementary students is always a hit! My Fall Math Craft Pack allows your students to express their creativity while working on important math skills​. This resource includes two different crafts and differentiated math activities. Simply choose the math skill that best fits the needs of your students and let them get busy creating. When you combine an academic concept with a craft, it seems to take off any pressure or stress students feel. They happily dive into the math because they are excited about what they are creating.

Once students are finished with the math and creating their scarecrow or turkey, I love adding a writing component. Students then write about their scarecrow or turkey. Sometimes I let them free-write and other times I will give them a simple writing prompt that connects to a writing skill we are working on. However you choose to do it, the finished math craft and writing activity makes a wonderful finished product.

This resource is a great way to bring a hands-on element to our learning. Plus, it doubles as a beautiful display in or outside our classroom during the holiday season. The students enjoy seeing their work displayed, and it creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere during November.

3. Thanksgiving STEM Challenges as November Activities

STEM activities are a fantastic way to engage our students in problem-solving and critical thinking. My Thanksgiving STEM Challenges are one of my go-to November activities for elementary students​. The best part is that these challenges incorporate real-world engineering problems with a fun holiday twist. One of the challenges asks students to design a launch to help a turkey escape from a pumpkin patch. It’s the perfect way to bring STEM into the holiday season.

What makes these activities stand out is that they promote teamwork. I often group my students into small teams. While in these teams, they brainstorm, design, and test their ideas together. These November STEM activities provide opportunities to work on skills such as communication, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. Plus, it’s a great way to review scientific concepts in a fun and engaging context. Whether you’re teaching older kids or younger students, the STEM challenges can be adapted to suit different age groups. They also offer a perfect balance of hands-on learning and critical thinking.

4. Spelling Activities for Thanksgiving in November

Spelling practice is another key part of my November activities for elementary students. With the Thanksgiving Spelling Activities, we get to take our spelling lessons to the next level​! In this resource, I include 15 creative ways to practice spelling using any word list. By doing so, I make it flexible for different grades and abilities among our students.

During November, I like to use seasonal words like “turkey,” “feast,” and “Pilgrim” as part of our spelling list. The spelling activities can be done individually or in small groups. I especially love how this packet includes both print and digital options. It’s a great time to bring in some technology to amp up student engagement! My students enjoy completing the digital spelling puzzles because of the game-like feel. For those who prefer hands-on work, I set up centers with printable activities where they can create sentences using their spelling words or practice writing them out in different ways.

5. Thanksgiving Mystery Game: Who Done It? for November Activities

One of the most exciting November activities for elementary students I use is the Thanksgiving Math Mystery: Who Done It? This resource is a fun way to practice math skills while keeping our students engaged in a mystery-solving adventure. I always introduce this activity by telling my students that they’re now detectives. They need to work to solve a Thanksgiving-themed mystery. It’s the perfect time to review math concepts while getting into the festive spirit of the fall season.

Each clue is tied to math problems and provides a fun way to review a variety of skills. Students must solve these problems to reveal the next clue, working together in small groups to figure out “Who done it?” This activity is a great way to reinforce math during November while incorporating a bit of detective work, which students absolutely love.

This mystery game fits perfectly into my lesson plans, whether we use it in morning work, independent work, or small group rotations. It provides practice with math concepts. It also challenges students to think critically and use logical reasoning to solve the case. Plus, it’s a fun fall activity that works for all students, including older kids who enjoy the added challenge.

6. Write a Class Cookbook for November Activities

Writing a class cookbook is one of my favorite November activities for elementary students. This is a great way to bring in the spirit of the holiday season while reinforcing writing skills. I introduce this activity by talking about our favorite foods we enjoy during the holidays. Each student shares a dish they love, whether it’s their grandma’s famous pumpkin pie or a family recipe for mashed potatoes.

Then, we walk through how to write a recipe. We focus on important elements like ingredients, instructions, and clear, concise steps. It’s the perfect time to review sequencing words like “first,” “next,” and “finally,” which ties into our language arts curriculum. After that, each student writes out their recipe. We combine them to create our very own class cookbook. Make sure to scroll down and grab the free November activities packet for a recipe book writing page you can use.

This project also ties in with math because we practice measuring ingredients and talking about fractions during our discussions. By the end of the project, each student has contributed to a beautiful cookbook that we share with families. It’s a perfect keepsake for the holiday season. It’s a great way to build excitement around writing while celebrating the joys of food!

7. How to Catch a Plump and Perky Turkey – Read Aloud for November Activities

Read aloud time is always a hit among my students. One of my favorite November activities for elementary students is reading A Plump and Perky Turkey. I love introducing this book by asking my students how they think they could catch a turkey. This sparks so many creative ideas! After a fun discussion, we dive into the story.

As we read, I pause to ask questions about the characters’ plans. I encourage my students to make predictions about what will happen next. This keeps them engaged and thinking critically. After reading, we transition into a creative writing activity where they come up with their own plans to catch a turkey. They illustrate their ideas and write a step-by-step guide, which ties into our lessons on sequencing and how-to writing. I have a free writing template you can use in your classroom for this activity. Just scroll down and grab the free November activities packet.

If you want to take it a step further, add a STEM component to this activity and let students build what they wrote about. Using simple materials like construction paper, pipe cleaners, recyclable boxes, and anything else you have on hand, students can create their own turkey-catching prototype.

It’s a fun fall activity that really taps into their imaginations. It also builds excitement around both reading and writing. Plus, we decorate our classroom and hallway with their creative turkey-catching ideas to share their hard work!

8. Create a Thankful Turkey for November Activities

Another favorite in our lineup of November activities for elementary students is creating a thankful turkey. This activity is a perfect way to incorporate gratitude into our classroom. While we are showing our gratitude, we are also practicing writing and fine motor skills. I introduce the activity by discussing everything we are thankful for, whether it’s family, friends, or even our pets.

I give each student a turkey template. They write something they are thankful for on each feather. As they decorate their turkeys, we work on spelling, handwriting, and using descriptive words. This activity enhances their writing skills and fosters a sense of community in the classroom as we share what we are grateful for.

9. Practice Graphing for November Activities

Graphing is an important math skill, and I love finding ways to make it fun for my students. One of my go-to November activities for elementary students is practicing graphing with a Thanksgiving twist. I start by having the students survey each other about their favorite Thanksgiving foods such as turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie, and more. This is a great way to introduce data collection and get everyone excited about the topic.

Once we have the data, I have my students create bar graphs to represent their findings. We talk about the different parts of a graph, like the axes, labels, and titles. Once we have a good handle on the parts of the graph, we chat about how to interpret the information. This is a fun way to reinforce math skills and a great introduction to interpreting data.

And. . . if you’d like to tackle pie graphs I’m here to help. Inside the free November activities packet below you can grab a free spin and graph activity that is perfect for November. I love to use this as a math center for a little extra practice with data and graphing.

For an added challenge, we move on to comparing and analyzing graphs. We might discuss which foods were the most popular. We might also look at how the results compare across different small groups in the class. This activity combines math and real-world skills. My students love seeing their results displayed on the board. It’s the perfect math activity for November.

Some Free November Activities to Get You Started

To help you get started in filling those November lesson plans, I have three of the activities described above that you can grab for free. Simply sign up here and the free November activities will be sent directly to your inbox.

In this packet, you will receive a writing page for your class recipe book, a spin and graph activity, as well as a follow-up writing activity you can use after reading How to Catch a Plump and Perky Turkey. So what are you waiting for? Click the image below and grab the free November activities for elementary students for your classroom.

Additional Resources to Explore

Now that we’ve covered some fun and engaging November activities for elementary students, there’s still so much more to explore! I’ve got even more resources lined up that are perfect for keeping your students motivated and learning. Let’s explore a few more ideas that will bring the festive spirit right into your classroom!

• 9 Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement
• EASY Stem Activity to Get Your Students Excited {FREEBIE}
• 5 Halloween/Fall Activities to Engage Your Students

Wrapping Up November Activities for Elementary Students

As we wrap up these exciting November activities for elementary students, I hope you feel inspired to bring festive fun into your classroom! From creating a class cookbook to practicing graphing with a Thanksgiving twist, these activities are the perfect way to engage your students while reinforcing key skills. November is such a great time to mix in hands-on projects, read fun stories, and celebrate the holiday season with meaningful lessons that keep learning exciting. Whether you’re working with small groups or your whole class, these ideas will surely make this time of year one your students won’t forget!

Save these Fun and Engaging November Activities for Elementary Students

Remember to save this post to your favorite teacher Pinterest board for quick access to these November activities for elementary students!

The post 9 Fun and Engaging November Activities for Elementary Students appeared first on Elementary Island.

Favorite Halloween Read-Alouds for Elementary Students

1. Creepy Carrots by Aaron Reynolds

Let’s dive into one of my favorite Halloween read-alouds for elementary students – Creepy Carrots by Aaron Reynolds. This book is a fantastic way to bring some spooky fun into your classroom without going over the top. Plus, who doesn’t love a good carrot-themed mystery?

Creepy Carrots Summary

In this story, Jasper Rabbit is obsessed with eating carrots from Crackenhopper Field. One day, he starts to notice something strange. The carrots are following him! Or are they? With each page turn, our kids will be on the edge of their seats. They’ll be wondering if Jasper’s paranoia is justified, or if it’s all in his head. The illustrations by Peter Brown add to the eerie vibe with a shadowy, gray tone that makes those carrots seem even creepier. It’s a perfect blend of suspense and humor, making it a great read for the month of October.

Simple Classroom Activity

After reading Creepy Carrots, you can have your students create their own “creepy carrot” craft. All you need is orange construction paper, googly eyes, and markers. Have the students cut out carrot shapes, decorate them with spooky faces, and then create a little scene where their carrots might hide. This activity lets our kiddos tap into their creativity while tying in the story’s theme of imagination.

For an extra twist, you can also do a “Carrot Hunt” in your classroom. Hide paper carrots around the room and challenge your students to find them all. They’ll feel like Jasper Rabbit trying to keep track of those creepy carrots!

This book and activity combo is such a great way to kick off your collection of favorite Halloween read-alouds for elementary students. The kids will love it. You’ll have a blast watching their imaginations run wild with these creepy, yet fun, carrots!

2. Big Pumpkin by Erica Silverman

Next up on my life of favorite Halloween read-alouds for elementary students is Big Pumpkin by Erica Silverman. This book is a great mix of humor, teamwork, and a little bit of Halloween magic. It’s a story that kids can’t help but love, and it’s perfect for the spooky season!

Big Pumpkin Summary

Big Pumpkin is a hilarious tale about a witch who wants to make a pumpkin pie for Halloween. There’s just one problem. Her pumpkin is too big to pick! One by one, different Halloween characters like a ghost, a vampire, and a mummy try their luck at pulling the giant pumpkin off the vine. None of them succeed! In the end, it’s the smallest character, a bat, who has the clever idea of working together. With a little teamwork, they finally get that big pumpkin ready for pie. The repetitive text and catchy rhythm make this story an instant hit with younger kids. It’s also a great way to talk about cooperation and problem-solving.

Simple Classroom Activity

After reading Big Pumpkin, a fun and simple activity is to have your students create their own paper pumpkins. Students can cut out and assemble their own pumpkins using basic supplies like orange and green construction paper, scissors, and glue. Then, have them draw or write about what kind of Halloween character might try to pick their pumpkin and how they would work together to get it off the vine.

For a bit of sequencing fun, have your students draw each of the characters from the story on a small piece of paper. Then, using a sentence strip, let them put the events of the story in order.

3. Bone Soup by Cambria Evans

Another one of my favorite Halloween read-alouds for elementary students is Bone Soup by Cambria Evans. This spooky twist on a classic folktale is a perfect way to bring a bit of Halloween magic into your classroom. Your kiddos will love the eerie, yet fun, vibe of the story.

Bone Soup Summary

Bone Soup tells the story of Finnigin, a skeleton with an insatiable appetite. When he arrives in a new town on Halloween, he finds that the townspeople are too stingy to share their food. Finnigin has a clever plan. He pulls out his magical bone and declares he’s making bone soup! Slowly but surely, the curious townspeople begin to contribute ingredients to the pot. Soon enough, they have a bubbling cauldron of delicious soup everyone can enjoy. The story is a great lesson in sharing and community, wrapped up in a spooky package just right for Halloween.

Simple Classroom Activity

After reading Bone Soup, one activity idea is to have your students create their own soup using construction paper and markers. Provide them with a large pot template on paper. Let them cut out and decorate their own ingredients to add to the soup, like bones, eyeballs, worms, or any other spooky items they can imagine. Once they’re done, they can glue their ingredients into the pot and share what they added with the class.

Another option is to make your own edible soup. All you would need is a crockpot, some chicken broth, and a variety of veggies. A simple recipe, like this one, is perfect to make in the classroom. Let the class help measure and pour all of the ingredients together and celebrate with a warm lunch or snack later in the day.

4. The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams

Next on my list of favorite Halloween read-alouds for elementary students is The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams. This tale brings just the right amount of spookiness to your classroom. At the same time, showing our kiddos that sometimes, facing your fears can lead to something pretty awesome.

The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything Summary

In this story, a brave little old lady takes a walk in the woods, only to be followed by some very mysterious and very noisy objects. First, she hears “clomp, clomp” behind her, then “wiggle, wiggle” and “clomp, clomp”! As more and more spooky things start following her, the little old lady refuses to be scared. Instead, she finds a clever way to put all those creepy objects to good use. The repetitive and rhythmic text makes this book a fun read-aloud. The suspense builds in a way that keeps kids engaged from start to finish.

Simple Classroom Activity

After reading The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything, you can get your students involved in a fun and interactive retelling of the story. Use classroom supplies like paper, scissors, and markers to create the different spooky objects from the book – shoes, pants, a shirt, gloves, and a pumpkin head. Let your students take turns acting out the story, wearing the different “costumes” they’ve made as the class follows along with the familiar sounds of “clomp, clomp”, “wiggle, wiggle”, and more. This activity reinforces the story and gets your kids moving and collaborating.

Another great idea is to have your students draw and write about something they’re not afraid of, just like the little old lady. They can share their creations with the class. You can even display their work in a “We’re Not Afraid” display on a bulletin board or in the hallway. This ties in perfectly with the book’s theme of courage and creativity.

5. Creepy Pair of Underwear by Aaron Reynolds

Continuing with another spooky favorite on my list of favorite Halloween read-alouds for elementary students, let’s talk about Creepy Pair of Underwear by Aaron Reynolds. This book, with its perfect blend of humor and creepiness, is sure to become a hit in your classroom!

Creepy Pair of Underwear Summary

In Creepy Pair of Underwear, Jasper Rabbit is back. This time, he’s convinced he’s a big rabbit who’s not afraid of anything, including a new pair of glow-in-the-dark underwear. When those undies start to glow in the dark, things take a creepy turn. He tries throwing them out, burying them, even mailing them far away. No matter what, the creepy pair of underwear keeps coming back! With a clever and unexpected twist at the end, this story keeps kids laughing while also giving them a little shiver of excitement. The illustrations by Peter Brown perfectly capture the eerie glow of the underwear, adding to the spooky vibes of the book.

Simple Classroom Activity

After reading Creepy Pair of Underwear, an activity idea is to have your students design their own creepy pair of underwear! Students can create their own glow-in-the-dark designs using supplies like white paper and markers. If you want to add an extra touch, you can even use glow-in-the-dark paint or stickers to make their creations shine (literally!). Once everyone is done, let your students share their spooky designs with the class.

If you want to stay away from underwear themed activities, then dive into the glow-in-the-dark theme! Have a glow-in-the-dark day where you leave the classroom lights off and do everything using only the light of glow sticks. Students will love reading in the dark using a glow stick as their flashlight. Grab some glow-in-the-dark stickers and complete a sticker story during writing time. This book will be the perfect read aloud for glow-in-the-dark activities.

6. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

Now, let’s dive into a slightly spookier, but still one of my favorite Halloween alouds for elementary students: The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman. This book is a perfect pick for older elementary students who are ready for a story that’s a bit more mysterious and full of adventure.

The Graveyard Book Summary

The Graveyard Book is a tale about a boy named Nobody Owens, Bod for short. He is raised by ghosts in a graveyard after his family is tragically taken from him. The graveyard becomes his home, and the ghosts and other supernatural creatures become his family. As Bod grows up, he learns life lessons from the dead. He also encounters plenty of eerie adventures along the way, all while trying to avoid the man who wants to finish what he started. Neil Gaiman weaves together a story that is both haunting and heartwarming. It’s filled with suspense, mystery, and just the right amount of spookiness for the Halloween season.

Simple Classroom Activity

Since The Graveyard Book is a bit longer and more complex, it works well as a chapter book read aloud over several days or weeks. After each reading session, you can engage your students with a creative activity that ties into the story. One simple idea is to have the students design their own gravestone for one of the characters in the book. They can create an epitaph and design that reflects the character’s personality or story using paper, markers, and their imaginations. This activity reinforces their understanding of the characters and allows them to explore the book’s unique setting.

Another engaging activity is to create a “Graveyard Map” of Bod’s adventures. As you progress through the story, have students draw and label different parts of the graveyard where key events take place. This can be done on a large poster or individual sheets of paper. By the end of the book, you’ll have a detailed map that helps the students visualize Bod’s world and follow along with his journey.

7. Pumpkin Soup by Helen Cooper

Let’s move on to another cozy and slightly spooky favorite Halloween read-aloud for elementary students, which is Pumpkin Soup by Helen Cooper. This story brings a warm, fall feel to your classroom, making it a perfect choice for Halloween.

Pumpkin Soup Summary

Pumpkin Soup tells the tale of three friends, a Cat, a Duck, and a Squirrel, who live together in a little cabin in the woods. Every day, they make the most delicious pumpkin soup. They each have their own special role in the process. But things quickly go awry when Duck decides to switch roles and stir the soup. The friends have a falling out. Duck runs away, leaving Cat and Squirrel to realize just how much they miss him. The story is a heartwarming lesson about friendship, cooperation, and the importance of working together even when things don’t go as planned.

Simple Classroom Activity

After reading Pumpkin Soup, have your students create their own recipe for pumpkin soup. Using construction paper and markers, they can draw a big pot and add their own ingredients, both real and imaginary! Encourage them to think of what they would put in their soup to make it special. Then, have them share their recipes with the class.

Another great idea is to create a “Friendship Recipe” with your class. Have your students brainstorm the key ingredients that make up a good friend (like kindness, sharing, and understanding). Write them down on a large pot drawn on the board or on a poster. This ties in beautifully with the story’s theme and allows you to discuss the importance of teamwork and friendship in your classroom.

8. The Witches by Roald Dahl

Let’s dive into one of the most iconic stories on my list of favorite Halloween read-alouds for elementary students – The Witches by Roald Dahl. This book is perfect for older elementary students. Get ready for a thrilling and slightly sinister tale that still manages to have a touch of Roald Dahl’s signature humor.

The Witches Summary

The Witches tells the story of a little boy who stumbles upon a secret gathering of witches. Real witches, not the kind that wear pointy hats and fly on broomsticks. These are the terrifying kind who are disguised as ordinary women and have a deep hatred for children. When the boy and his grandmother discover the witches’ plan to turn all the children in England into mice, they set out on a daring adventure to stop them. This book is perfect for Halloween with its suspenseful plot, unforgettable characters, and a mix of humor and horror. Quentin Blake’s illustrations add to the quirky and eerie atmosphere.

Simple Classroom Activity

After reading The Witches, you can engage your students in a creative writing activity. Have them imagine they’ve uncovered a group of witches in their own town or school. What would the witches look like? What evil plan would they be hatching? How would the students stop them? This activity encourages imagination and lets your kids put themselves into the story’s spooky world.

For a hands-on project, consider making “witch masks” with basic supplies like paper plates, markers, and yarn. Let the students design their own scary or silly witch faces inspired by the witches in the story. You can even use these masks for a dramatic reading or a mini-play based on a scene from the book. It’s a fun way to bring the story to life and engage the kids in Halloween-themed creativity.

9. Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz

Let’s turn up the spookiness with a true classic that belongs on every list of favorite Halloween read-alouds for elementary students. Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz was a favorite when I was growing up, and so many of my students love these spooky tales. This collection of short, creepy tales is perfect for those who love a good scare. It’s a great way to introduce your students to the thrill of spooky stories during the Halloween season.

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark Summary

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark is a collection of folk tales and urban legends retold by Alvin Schwartz, with spine-chilling illustrations by Stephen Gammell. The book features various eerie stories, from ghostly apparitions to haunted houses and mysterious creatures. Some of the tales are more humorous. Others are downright terrifying, making this book a versatile choice for different age groups and scare levels. What makes this collection especially fun for Halloween is that many of the stories have a “jump-scare” moment. The reader or listener gets a sudden fright, which is perfect for keeping your students on the edge of their seats!

Simple Classroom Activity

After reading a few of the stories from Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, you can get your students involved in creating their own spooky tales. It’s the perfect way to explore the mystery genre or focus on word usage and adjectives. Give them some simple prompts, like “a ghost in the attic” or “a strange noise in the dark.” Have them write and illustrate their own scary stories. This activity encourages creative writing and art while allowing students to explore their spooky imaginations.

Another fun activity is to hold a “Scary Story Circle.” Have the students sit in a circle and take turns telling their own scary stories or retelling one from the book. To add an extra element of spookiness, you can dim the lights and use a flashlight to create a campfire-like atmosphere. This activity helps build public speaking skills while allowing everyone to share in the Halloween fun.

10. The Hallo-Weiner by Dav Pilkey

Let’s move on to a fun and lighthearted choice on our list of favorite Halloween read-alouds for elementary students, which is The Hallo-Wiener by Dav Pilkey. This book is perfect for younger students and brings a mix of humor, friendship, and Halloween spirit.

The Hallo-Wiener Summary

The Hallo-Wiener tells the story of Oscar, a lovable dachshund who is often teased by other dogs because of his long, hot-dog-shaped body. Despite the teasing, Oscar remains a kind and good-hearted pup. When Halloween rolls around, Oscar is excited to join in the fun. His mom surprises him with a hot dog costume that is complete with mustard! Embarrassed but determined, Oscar bravely wears the costume, even though it only fuels the other dogs’ teasing. However, when a scary “monster” threatens the other dogs, Oscar’s bravery and unique costume saves the day. This earns him the respect of his peers. This heartwarming tale is a great way to talk about kindness, courage, and being proud of who you are.

Simple Classroom Activity

After reading The Hallo-Wiener, a great hands-on activity is to have your students design their own Halloween costumes, just like Oscar’s hot dog costume. Using supplies like construction paper, markers, scissors, and glue, students can create a drawing or a mini version of a costume they’d love to wear on Halloween. Encourage them to think outside the box and create something unique or funny. Once they’ve finished, have them work on descriptive word usage by writing about their costume.

Another fun and engaging activity is to hold a discussion or writing session about the book’s themes. This book is a great springboard for discussions on bullying, kindness, and accepting differences. You can ask your students to write about a time when they were brave, like Oscar, or a moment when they helped others, even if it was hard. This is a great way to reinforce the story’s message of kindness, courage, and being proud of who you are. No matter what others might say.

Increase Student Engagement With These Amazing Read Alouds for October

As you plan your October activities, these favorite Halloween read-alouds for elementary students are sure to capture your class’s imagination. They will also bring a little spooky fun into your classroom library. From the laugh-out-loud moments to the edge-of-your-seat suspense, each of these stories offers a great way to engage your students and spark their creativity. As you share these stories, you’re not just celebrating Halloween. You’re helping students develop a love of reading, encouraging teamwork, and building an atmosphere where creativity thrives. Whether it’s through drawing, writing, or even a little acting, these simple, budget-friendly activities will make your favorite Halloween books for elementary students even more memorable. Get ready to watch your students’ eyes light up as they embark on these spooky, fun-filled adventures. Happy Halloween, and happy reading!

Looking for More Halloween Activities?

If you’re looking for even more activities to do during this spooky season, explore the following resources!

• 5 Halloween/Fall Activities to Engage Your Students
• Fall STEM October Activities for Halloween | Halloween STEM Hands On Activities
• Halloween Math Activities | Halloween Math Mystery | Who Done It Mysteries

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Pumpkins, skeletons, candy corn, ghosts, and haunted houses……you know what that means!  Fall is here and my FAVORITE holiday that comes with it……HALLOWEEN!

Although the holiday is around that haunted house corner, curriculum still looms near us like that creepy ghost! Bwahahaha!!!!

In an effort to get the kids excited for the season but still focus on our skills, I have incorporated a few “fun” activities into my plans the weeks leading up to Halloween and after.  I’ve got you covered for spelling, math, science and everything in between!

This activity is great for ANY (and I do mean ANY) part of your curriculum!  I am amazed at what rolling a paper up and securing it with a ring spider can do!!!!! Roll up those questions in any content area, secure, and you have INSTANT engagement!  I chose some review task cards for my scrolls and it was a HUGE hit! 

I’ve incorporated some holiday-themed spelling papers into my word workstations to keep the fun going!  Students work meticulously on practicing their spelling words for the week because….. don’t you know it’s FUN to write your spelling words in spider legs??

If you’re interested in all 12 activities to use with ANY list, click HERE.

Food?  Well YES, PLEASE!  Grab those candy corn bags off the shelf and use them to review greater than / less than!  They make the perfect symbols for your Halloween-themed assignments.  Simply grab dice and a handful of candy corn and….. your students are HOOKED!

Review, review, review!  We know how important it is to spiral our skills!  This pumpkin activity does just that!  Review those place value skills that you have tirelessly worked all quarter on.  The BEST part?  This can double as a cute hallway display!!!!  You can print the pumpkins on orange paper or have your students do the coloring! Connect some vines and….. VOILA!!! A cute place value pumpkin display that can last all fall!

Of course, I saved the BEST for last! STEM!  My oh my, do my students L-O-V-E STEM!  I love it too, but it has to serve a purpose.  These activities, available for fall or Halloween, will have your students 100% participating and creating!  Students are asked to research, design to meet a challenge, test the challenge, record their information, and reflect on the outcomes!   All of them, EVERY LAST ONE OF THEM, will be BEGGING for more STEM! 

I promise! 

Fall STEM: 
★ Collect piles of leaves to see who gains the most points
★ Create pumpkin boats to see how many pumpkin candies can be held.
★ Create a tool to move pumpkins from the Scarecrow
★ Create a route to move the pumpkins from the patch to the car for shipment in the fastest time

 Grab the Fall STEM lessons HERE.

Halloween STEM
★ Construct the tallest haunted house
★ Create a web to catch the most spiders
★ Create the most life-like skeleton
★ Stack candy corn to create the tallest structure
 

These awesome Halloween activities are available HERE.
 

Do you have favorite Halloween or fall activities that get your students excited?  I would LOVE to hear about them below!  

The post 5 Halloween/Fall Activities to Engage Your Students appeared first on Elementary Island.