Summer reading is important because children who practice reading at their independent level become fluent more quickly and at the same time, build a cache of background knowledge that will serve them well as they begin to learn more content at school.
Children who don't read suffer from some of the same disadvantages as those who cannot read, because they reach the intermediate grades without the same level of background knowledge that avid readers enjoy.
Unfortunately, children have many entertainment options competing for their attention all summer, and the motivation to read may dwindle. Parents and caregivers may have to provide incentives and additional encouragement to get children reading, but the rewards are great and well worth the effort. The following are some suggestions for bringing kids and books together this summer.
Community Summer Reading Ideas
Most libraries offer a themed summer reading program for elementary students that provides simple prizes or incentives for students who read the largest number of books. These programs may be a good starting point for reluctant readers who require extrinsic rewards to get started. However, experienced readers may need something more creative to get them excited about summer reading.Try a neighborhood book exchange party to kick off the summer reading season. Have children bring their used books. Organize the books by genre or author, and allow children to pitch their favorite books to each other. Children should leave the party with a minimum number of books to read for the summer. Any remaining books can be donated to charity.
Neighbors or friends can read the same book together and have monthly book club parties to celebrate and discuss the books. Parents or caregivers can provide food-related to the story or lead crafts or activities that enhance their understanding of the story. Members should give their club a name and decide on a culminating activity that will be a fitting end to a rich summer of reading.
Home-Based Reading Ideas in Summer
Some children become more inspired to read in a more individualized, one-on-one situation. In these cases, parents or caregivers can share their own childhood favorites, bring children to see authors read their works at bookstores or libraries, or work with children to determine an at-home summer reading program that will be a personalized incentive to them.For children who struggle with reading, at-home options may provide the best environment for appropriate reading practice. Create an environment that is cozy and suitable for reading, like an indoor play tent. Look for popular children's series to start, because children can then become familiar with the author's style and vocabulary, and this way, experience more success with their reading. Provide plenty of experiences, and then look for books that can expand the learning. Introduce children to non-fiction that will help them pursue their interests.
Children who spend their summer reading become more fluent while improving comprehension, fluency, and background knowledge. Parents and caregivers can provide expanded opportunities for summer reading by bringing neighborhood children together for group reading activities or by interesting individual children in books that will in time become special and unique for them.