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Make reading part of your child’s summer fun

Reading over the summer can help your child perform better when school starts in the fall. Helping your child learn to read for enjoyment is very important. Parents should also remember that children need free time to relax and enjoy the break from school during the summer. So, summer reading needs to be fun.

Some suggestions for summer reading are:

• Encourage your child to join a summer reading club at your local library. Often these clubs include reading lists for each age level.

• Subscribe to a children’s magazine that matches the interests of your child and his or her reading level. Suggested magazines include Ranger Rick, Sports Illustrated for Kids, Highlights for Children and National Geographic World.

• Allow your child to choose whatever he or she wants to read. If your child needs assistance making selections, try to match books to the child’s interests and hobbies.

• Be a good example for your child. Model good reading habits by reading books, magazines, and newspapers. Talk with your child about what you are reading.

• Read aloud to your child every day. Vary your settings: read outdoors under a tree, on the patio, on the front steps, at the beach or at the park.

• Listen to books on tape. Use these books in the car or at home as a family listening activity.

• Make trips a way to encourage reading by reading aloud traffic signs, billboards, notices, restaurant names and maps.

• Take books to places where you may have “wait” time: doctor’s offices, hair appointments, and trips.

• Read books with rhymes. Teach your child rhymes, poems and songs.

• Assist your child in making a summer scrapbook. Your child can write and read the captions.

• Look on the Internet for summer reading book lists.

The previous tips were compiled from various sources including the Association for Library Service to Children and Learning Disabilities Online.