A simple, parent-friendly checklist aligned to Common Core English Language Arts standards to help families track progress, document learning, and feel confident about reading and writing expectations.
This free checklist is designed for families with children in Pre-K through 5th grade who want clarity without overwhelm. It helps parents understand Common Core reading and writing expectations and track learning in a simple, organized way whether they homeschool, supplement learning at home, or provide enrichment support.
This checklist is a reference and documentation tool, not a curriculum, assessment, or test.
This checklist was created by Melissa Fox, a literacy educator with over 30 years of experience supporting children, families, teachers, and homeschool learners in reading and writing. The goal is to provide clarity, reassurance, and practical structure without pressure or overwhelm.
Clear expectations. Simple documentation. Confident literacy planning.
Check your inbox for the Common Core Reading & Writing Checklist (Pre-K–5).
Thank you for downloading the checklist!
This resource was created to help families feel clear and confident about reading and writing expectations without overwhelm, pressure, or rigid curriculum.
As you use the checklist, here are a few helpful reminders:
Use it as a reference, not a daily to-do list
Observe your child during reading, talking, and writing
Check off skills as you notice growth over time
Save notes or samples if you need simple documentation
Progress doesn’t come from doing everything at once. It comes from consistent, meaningful literacy experiences that fit your child.
How to Use This Checklist (Short + Reassuring)
You don’t need special materials or formal lessons.
One simple routine works beautifully:
This natural connection builds comprehension, vocabulary, and writing confidence over time.
If you’re unsure which skills to focus on first or would like guidance using books and activities more purposefully, support is available through Fox Tutoring Academy. Families receive personalized literacy guidance designed to fit their child, not a one-size-fits-all program.
This checklist is an informational reference aligned to Common Core English Language Arts standards. It is not a curriculum, assessment, or diagnostic tool and does not replace instruction, evaluations, or state reporting requirements. Families may use this checklist alongside the books and resources of their choice.