Accelerated Reading program in itself is a rewarding program. As a parent who really encouraged my child from home to read, the school also encourage grade wide reading. The students who read and received a certain amount of points were given ice cream tokens and picture placed on display by the number of points they'd achieved. I say turn it into a positive reinforcement opportunity.

In my own Kindergarten classroom, I do not allow my students to begin taking AR tests until after Christmas Break. This is usually the time when students are familiar with working independently on a computer, so they are able to take the tests independently. Students should not be able to take AR tests until they are developmentally ready, which will help some with the "burnout" issue. Also, students must read books that are appropriate so that they experience success with the tests- this will encourage them to take them. Also, the teacher can set up a goal-setting system, in which students are given an attainable goal based on their own reading abilities. Once students meet their goal, they will receive a reward and a new goal will be given. This will also encourage them to take tests and meet point goals, as well as give all students a feeling of success, regardless of their reading abilities.

Inform students this is simply practice and a way for them to get in the habit of taking them before they become graded on it. I would also provide incentives for a certain number of AR test taken and keep a reading chart that keeps track of the number of AR test taken for each student. Turn it into a competition.

In my opinion, many students get tired of AR because they read only for the points and not for meaning. Because of this, students get bored and resentful toward reading. For that reason, I would suggest encouraging students to read for the pleasure of reading and not necessarily on the points associated with the program. They will receive rewards for their performances of tests anyhow, so instilling meaningful reading would help reduce the possibility of AR burn out.

With kindergarteners, AR is not always seen as developmentally appropriate. I would definitely begin by having students take tests together ( as a class) to show the process and really celebrate the correct answers and use the wrong answers as a teachable moment to go back and find the correct answer. Make it a big deal when they do well! Offer incentives for those that take tests independently and do well. For instance, a change to visit the library for each book they read and get a 80% or above on the AR test and a piece of candy. Once a student reads and earns 10 points, add their name to the wall for the 10 point club. Make it a big deal! Anything to make them excited about reading!

I would set up a maximum number of tests that students can take in a month. After students have surpassed this amount, invite them to partake in different activities for the books they have read. For example, making a poster of the book or creating a collage of the book.

I have found that if you emphasize the grades too much, students kind of like taking the tests at that age. When they do well they get excited and if you encourage that excitement, they will want to take more.

Make reading fun! My son is 6 years old and in kindergarten. He loves to read and take AR tests. He receives recognition for taking AR tests. He gets awards/certificates every time he reaches so many points. I also believe that if a student is not ready, that they should not be required to do so.