One activity involves looking at the novel in the context of the Victorian age, and exploring what childhood, among other themes, such as human rights and education, were like during that era. Children might write a brief essay after researching these themes, or perhaps prepare a presentation in groups. While the novel is set in England, this activity can be opened up to examine what these issues were like in other countries around the time which the novel is based in. Kids might also want to look at what Dickens is saying about these issues via "David Copperfield."
As a group, children can look at particular issues of the plot or characters within the novel, and explore how these themes affect their own lives in the present day. An adult should assemble kids together and lead these discussions. For example, the group might look at the character of Mr. Steerforth and his attitudes to other people in the novel; the group might then discuss the concept of what a gentleman is, and whether this has changed since Dickens' day. Kids could then look at whether this is an issue which still has a bearing on modern society.
"David Copperfield" will likely contain plenty of words and phrases which modern children won't recognize, because the words are archaic or rooted in Victorian England. In this activity, kids should read through a chapter of the novel and make a note of any words or phrases they don't immediately understand; examples might include "gaiter," referring to clothing, and "rasher," as in bacon. Children must then research the meanings of each word using a dictionary or the Internet.
A letter-writing activity can develop a child's creative and language skills, while also reinforcing her understanding of the characters and situations found in "David Copperfield." Kids should choose a particular part of the novel and write a letter from the point of view of a certain character; this letter can be directed to a specific person or perhaps to a nameless friend or relative. In the letter, the writer explores the character's thoughts and feelings about his situation. An example would be Peggotty's letter about David, addressed to Emily.