Summer Reading
Join the reading movement!
Summer Reading: Make it Count
We all know that reading is important for children over the summer and is essential to prevent “The Summer Slide” as it has come to be known. Often without access to text and rich learning experiences over the summer students lose the growth that they had made over the course of the year in 3 months of summer.
Ideas to Increase Summer Reading
Make a "Books-to-Read" List
During the school year we have made recommendations to each other and have found that very helpful in finding new books. From those suggestions, or from books that they know of or interests that they have make a list of books that they want to read over the summer. This is especially important for readers that may have just discovered joy in reading and need a constant diet of amazing books to keep it going. Keep the list handy because you never know when you will come across an opportunity to find more books.
Go to Where the Books Are
Make it Social
I know that I love reading a book and talking about it with others or even passing it on to a friend after I have read it to be able to chat about it. Make reading a social experience this summer.
Have reading parties where kids discuss books
Create a book swap with other families
Offer to be in a “book club” with your child and get more than one copy of a book to read and discuss or encourage them to form a book club with friends/neighbors.
Find Great Books
There are some online communities like #titletalk, #bookaday or nerdy book club that you can access to get ideas of what to read next. After seeing someone recommend it online, I am constantly adding to my wishlist. Scholastic has the “Book Wizard” resource available that allows you to put in search parameters and it will recommend books that fit the criteria. You do not have to purchase the books from Scholastic to access this resource.
LIsten to Books
Create a Routine
Reading at a regular time (when possible) creates a familiarity that is comfortable. It is a calming and bonding experience to read together. Helping your child create a reading routine where reading is a natural part of the day means that they will have more ownership over their reading.
Allow Real Choice
Summer is the time for guilt-free reading! A time where we reach for books that we cannot wait to read because they will suck us into a great story. A time to explore books that we want to read. Too often rules and expectations infringe on the beauty of summer reading. That goes for reading that that is “too easy” or “too hard.” Personally, I love picture books and graphic novels and other books that are “too easy” for me but sure are fun! Let's refuse to feel guilty about reading books that are fun.
Celebrate Abandonment
Reading Incentive Programs
Diary Queen is partnering with Washington Elementary School to encourage reading this summer. If you bring in a completed calendar of 15 per day for at least 20 days this summer using the attached calendar, your child can receive a free small Blizzard or Kid's meal. Additional information was emailed from the school.