Summer Reading

A strong predictor of school success is reading for enjoyment. There are many opportunities for kids to read in the summer. Traveling, hanging out at home, visiting family, and on the go are perfect times to read. Keep books your kids like in the car, in backpacks, on the plane, at the beach, next to the couch, and on bedside tables. Read wherever you are in the world and in all the languages you speak.

The Rose library is open to Barrington 220 families on Wednesdays. Children of all ages are welcome when accompanied by a caregiver. We'll be open from 1:00 to 3:00 with a read aloud around 2:00. There will be a craft/activity and time for kids to select and check out books.

• June 8, 22, 29
• July 6, 20, 27
• August 3, 10

Barrington Middle School English teachers ask that incoming 6th, 7th, and 8th graders read two or more books over the summer. Students can choose any books they'd like to read. Several book lists are available on the site, including recommendations from grade level English teachers. During library class, Rose fifth graders added the link to this website on their iPad home screen.

Fifty-nine Rose students checked out a copy of Where the Mountain Meets the Moon to read this summer!* This Newbery Honor book, written by Grace Lin, is the Barrington Area Library's Book of the Summer. It's an excellent choice for a family read aloud or audio book on a road trip.

"Young Minli lives in the valley of Fruitless Mountains where she and her parents spend their days working hard in the fields. At night, Minli listens to her father's tales about the Old man of the Moon, who knows the answers to everything. Minli sets out on a quest to find the Old Man of the Moon - he will know how she can bring good fortune to her family. Along the way she meets magical friends including a talking fish, a powerful king, and a dragon who can't fly." - from the back cover

*Students entering sixth grade can return the Rose library book at their BMS library.

Is there a little one in your family? Reading 1,000 books with your child before entering kindergarten puts them on the path of a great reader. While the number may be intimidating, simply reading a book or more each day will bring you to your goal. Get the whole family involved! Older siblings, grandparents, and caregivers can read to your young one. Every book experience gets your child closer to the goal. Books in other languages and books read repeatedly all count! There are lots of ways to record and celebrate each set of 100 books, including suggestions on the 10KB4K website. Most public libraries also sponsor this program. See the library links below. There's even an app!

Teachers read to their students daily, even through fifth grade. Families can, too! Reading to your children models fluency, introduces your children to higher level vocabulary and creates cozy family memories. The book can lead to discussions and a shared experience that can be referred to later. Read a book that you enjoyed as a child. Take turns, let each family member choose a book. If you're not sure where to start, check out Jim Trelease's Read Aloud Handbook.

Audio books are another opportunity to read. Kids can can read with their eyes and with their ears! Listening to an audio book in the car is a wonderful way to read as a family during a road trip. The Sora app on your child's iPad has lots of audiobook choices. Your child may enjoy listening while following along with a print book, while creating, doing chores or falling asleep. (Use the sleep timer!)

I highly recommend regular family visits to your public library. Your children learn how much you value reading when they see your example. Your child can even get get his or her own library card! There are summer reading programs at public libraries for newborns to adults. All Barrington 220 students are eligible to join the BAL program. Check out the many other activities and programs your library has to offer. Ask about checking out audio books, ebooks, and connecting to the Sora app.