Toward the end of every school year you can find recommended “summer reading” lists and great FREE programs to help keep your child reading all summer. Most kids balk at the idea of doing anything that resembles school during the summer months but reading doesn’t have to be on that list. Here are some easy tips on How To Encourage Your Kids To Read Over Summer Break. While every child is different in their maturity level, learning ability and individual interests this list includes several options that should apply to almost any child.
How To Encourage Your Kids To Read Over Summer Break
Be A Good Example: The number one way you can encourage your kids to dig into that stack of books this summer is if you not only do so yourself but read with them. Pick a book, sit down and read to them or with them to help encourage them and show them that reading really is fun for everyone.
Choose An Adventure: There is nothing as rewarding as creating your own fun imaginary story. Pick up a few of the classic Choose Your Own Adventure Books and teach your kids all about how they can make decisions to create the adventure themselves. Not only are the books interactive but the stories and possible plots and endings offer multiple combinations so the same book can literally provide multiple stories.
Promise To Go See The Movie: No matter what the latest hit movie is there are typically at least one or two each summer based on books. If age appropriate use a bit of bribery to get your kids involved in reading. Promise to take them to see the feature film made from the book along with a few of their friends if they will read the book first. This is especially great for series of books/movies since at the end of the first movie installment kids are more likely to want to know the conclusion and thus go back to the books for more information.
Join a Summer Reading Program: Pizza Hut has a BOOK IT! program where you can earn free pizzas for reading 20 minutes a day. Your school may offer information or you can view it online here.
Pick Up Comic Books: Although some wouldn’t consider this “reading a book” it is truly a great stepping stone. Many of the popular comic series also have full books available to help develop plots of the main characters. If your son or daughter lacks the concentration to read a full novel grab a few novellas or comics to help get them started in the right direction.
Meet The Author: Does your local book store or library host book signings? Check out the next author coming to town and, if appropriate, take your child to “meet the author” night. It’s a lot more fun to read a book if you actually feel like you “know” who wrote it.
Check Your Library: Many libraries offer free story times for younger children and even some though middle-schoolers. They may also offer special programs and activities to encourage learning, like Spokane Public Library does. A library in Ohio teamed up with Dairy Queen, a children’s science center, and other businesses to offer great prizes to reward children for reading. Try searching for “summer reading program 2014 YOUR STATE” to find something local to you!
No matter your children’s ages or their level of ability there are great ways to encourage your kids to read over summer break that are sure to be successful. The most important thing is to always give positive feedback and encouragement so they continue working and reading even when it seems and feels tough. The joy found in reading a book is a gift you give to your children. Invest time this summer to help them open and discover this gift for themselves.
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