Library
Summer Reading Tips to Share with Parents
- Read every day - Set aside time each day for your child to read, and set a good example by reading during that time yourself, as well!
- Read out loud - Try letting your child read to you, or to a pet or even a favorite toy.
- Location, location, location - Keep things interesting by choosing different places for your daily reading time -- in the backyard, front yard, at a park, on the beach, at the library, etc.
- Start a book club - Read the same book your child is reading, and talk with him or her about it to help develop comprehension and analytical skills.
- All choices are good choice - Encourage the reading habit by letting your child choose his or her own reading material, even if it's popular fiction or something else that may not be your first choice.
- Listen up - Give audiobooks a try! The whole family can listen to them together at home or in the car, or your child can listen solo with headphones.
- The library is your friend - Take your child to the library regularly, and while you're there collect information about any summer reading clubs, activities, or events they offer. Most libraries have programs with easy-to-reach goals and age-appropriate reading lists!
- Try a variety - In addition to books, encourage your child to read magazines (older children can read the newspaper, as well!). Some suggestions to help expand their horizons and their vocabularies; Nation Geographic Kids, Odyssey, Time for Kids, Ranger Rick, Highlights for Children, and Sports Illustrated for Kids.
- Read everywhere - No matter where you take your child, read aloud traffic signs, billboards, and anything else you see. If you're going on a longer trip, teach your child how to read a map and let him or her help navigate by reading you directions.
- Record it - Encourage your child to collect souvenirs (postcards, photos, ticket stubs, etc.) throughout the summer and create a scrapbook, writing captions for each item he or she includes.