Posted on: Thursday, June 15, 2006
Keep kids reading during summer
By Deirdre Reimer
Summer vacation is an important time for students to continue using their academic skills so they are prepared for the next school year. Encouraging academics when kids would rather be out playing is a difficult task for any parent, but it is important for your child's transition to a higher grade level.
Many students lose or choose not to practice their reading skills, which can cause major setbacks or frustration during the first months back in school. Continuing to read over the summer will help your child improve his or her vocabulary and overall comprehension skills. Here are some tips to encourage your student to read this summer:
Reward time spent reading. By giving your child an incentive to read, such as additional privileges, more responsibility or even small gifts, many young students will work for the goals presented and read at the same time. And it can keep them motivated to read throughout the summer.
For example, set a goal, such as a certain number of pages to read each day. Then create a reading log for your child. Have him or her log the book, time spent reading and number of pages read. When they achieve the goal (number of pages or books) give them a small reward (movie tickets, a gift, exemption from chores).
Ask them to read to younger siblings. This encourages expression rather than just "reading" the book. Many students sound out words but fail to comprehend the story. Children's books are easy and reinforce basic words and phrases. Older students would not choose these books on their own because they might feel embarrassed; however, by reading the book to a younger sibling they feel more comfortable.
Set aside a library day once a week for an hour. By setting aside time to go to a library, your child will look at books and find one that is interesting to them. Children will find enjoyment in picking stories that appeal to their own hobbies, personality and interests.
Ask your children to read to you before bed every night. Reading aloud to older adults is helpful when learning new words and practicing pronunciation. This also gives you a chance to spend one-on-one time with your child each day. During this time, you can gauge your child's reading level and notice if he or she is having a difficult time with words or meanings.
This column is provided through the Hawai'i State Teachers Association. Deirdre Reimer is a reading resource teacher at Mokapu Elementary.
