But experts say children can lose half the knowledge and skills they just got in school if they don't keep reading during the summer.
Many schools assign reading and tell the kids what they're required to do for the summer break. My 11-year-old must read 2 books before 6th grade and write a chapter-by-chapter synopsis that's due when school starts back. He's already figured out how long it will take him to finish both books if he reads 10 pages a day (43 days) and he's plotted out to start exactly 43 days before school starts back! Nothing like postponing the assignment until he "has" to start...but at least he's doing it!
If your school doesn't assign reading, don't worry. There are dozens of summer reading programs that give parents book suggestions that are age and grade appropriate, plus they offer prizes and fun activities as an extra incentive.
Philadelphia's Free Library has an annual summer reading program. You can check it out online or in person at one of the library branches. Your child can earn stickers and prizes by getting a new library card, checking out books/magazines/DVD's, filling out a "reading game board," and surfing the web.
If you live outside the city, check your closest public library. Or you can go online and Google "summer reading programs." There are many options to encourage your young child, tween or teen to read. One that promises free pizza is the "Book It" program. You can find it at Bookitprogram.com. Your child has to register by mid-August and list 5 books that they've read over the summer to qualify for a free prize pack. The prizes include a tote bag, water bottle, ball, sunglasses, book, jump rope and $20 gift card...plus free pizza. Sounds good to me!
And throughout the summer and the rest of the year, experts say the best way to get your children to love reading is if they see you read. I always have a fresh book around that I'm ready to start when I get a chance. And I grab a book anytime I take my little 1-year-old twins to an appointment or somewhere that could involve wait-time. They already love reading, and make sounds while they're holding a book that mimic me reading to them.
Teachers tell parents that we are our children's first, best teachers because we set the example and start the learning from when they're small tots.
Keep that love of reading going all summer long!
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