Learning for a lifetime is a lofty goal, one that children may not have. But certainly parents do for their children. One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to achieve that goal is through reading.
Reading during the summer isn’t just about the latest Harry Potter book. Studies show that children who use their school or public library generally get a letter grade higher than children who do not use a library. In fact, reading is essential to scoring well on the WASL and the new SAT. Those students who are regular readers tend to score better on test that require interpreting, reasoning, and writing. Encouraging your child to read is not only fundamental, but in fact essential to their success in school and beyond.
Yet all too often, the school year ends and books disappear under summer days filled with swimming, bicycling, vacations and relaxing. The best, and easiest, way to bridge the school years and help your child stay prepared for a new grade is to read through the summer.
My husband I have worked hard to instill a love of reading in our three children. Like most of you, we read to our children when they were very young. As our children became readers we listened and read with them. Most importantly, we became reading role models by reading books, magazines, and newspapers to show that reading is an enjoyable activity in which adults are engaged. We have also known the frustration of trying to continue the reading habit with the allure of sports, video games, the Internet, and boyfriends and girlfriends.
There is something for everyone – regardless of reading interest or age level – at a public library. But using the library isn’t the only way you can incorporate reading into your family’s summer plans. After all, children and adults of all ages can enjoy a good book. Here are just a few ideas:
* Combine activities with books. What is interesting to you or your child? If it’s a baseball game, why not check out a book on the sport or a favorite player?
* Role-model reading. Set an example for your children by reading in front of them. If they see you enjoying reading, they might think it’s something they would find fun, too.
* Talk about books. Even if a book is too advanced for a child to read, as a parent you can talk about a book in a way your child can understand. Describe a story, or explain why you found a book interesting. This helps a child see the pleasure reading gives, and it also helps them learn how to think and talk about something they read.
* Make time. Build some time into each day for you and your child to sit down and read together.
* Give your child choices. Reading isn’t just for books. Some children prefer magazines and newspapers. Help your child find what is most interesting for him or her.
* Read out loud. Children of all ages enjoy being read to. During the relaxing days of summer, pick out a book and read to your child. This also helps build narrative and retention skills that are valuable during the school year.
* Visit the library. All Sno-Isle libraries provide a variety of programs during the summer months that share reading and books with children in fun and creative ways. And don’t forget to check out a few books on your way home. Visit www.sno-isle.org for a list of library programs and recommended books for the entire family.
One of the greatest gifts a parent can give a child is the joy of reading. It helps make learning fun, for the summer and for a lifetime.
Jonalyn Woolf-Ivory is director of the Sno-Isle Library System.
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