The Three R's of Summer...
       Rest, Relaxation, and Reading!

Barbeques, pool parties, a day at the beach…and no homework! While we can all agree that kids need to have a little rest and relaxation over the summer break, it is no surprise that they also need to read.  Educators and researchers have been studying it for years and refer to it as the “summer slide.”  According to the New York State Education Department, it is estimated that the average student can lose up to a month of instruction and disadvantaged students are disproportionately affected (Cooper, 1996).   Here are some helpful tips for parents to support their children and teens: 

ü      Start before the school year ends!  Don’t make the mistake of making the mad dash to the library or bookstore three weeks before September because there is never a guarantee that your child will get the books that they want to read, therefore, resulting in even more of a struggle to read a book and a much more difficult time comprehending it. 

ü      Go to your child’s school web site and print a copy of the suggested summer reading list.  Discuss with your child the books that might interest them the most.  Number the books in order of interest, number one being the most interested.  Even though they might only be required to read 3-6 books, make a list of 10 favorites so you will have back up in case their top three choices are not available. 

ü      Spend an afternoon and take advantage of your local library.  If your child does not know how to search and locate a book, you can show them.  Or ask a librarian.  They are always more than eager to help.  If, however, you are really pressed for time, you can go to your local library web site, search for the books, place a hold to be picked up at the library most convenient for you.  Pop in and pick up the books in five minutes. 

ü      Supplement the summer reading list with books that somehow relate to what your child will be doing this summer.  If you are planning a canoeing trip, check out a non-fiction book about canoes.  Or if you visit a farm, look for a fun book about life on a farm, etc.  Having them read about something that they will do or have experienced can have a great impact. 

ü      As you did when they were babies, don’t ever hesitate to read to them, even teens.  If your child is reading below grade level this can build their vocabulary and give them the opportunity to experience age appropriate literature.  According to PBS.org, it can also help them to develop important language skills, understandings about books and print, and knowledge about how stories are constructed that will help your child become a strong reader and writer. And if for no other reason, it’s quality time with your child and shows them that you are taking an active role in their education.  Your example goes a long way. 

ü      Finally, call your child’s school to see if there are children who might not have easy access to books over the summer and donate a new or gently used book.  Your PTA representative is also a good person to contact to initiate a donation box.  You will feel great having helped a child in need. 

So this summer, do let your child go down a water slide but don’t let your child go down the summer reading slide!   

Happy reading! ~~MEO