Why is Reading and Writing During the Summer So Important For Children?

Reading Team: Pat Carter, Lori Murphy & Chris Ahern

According to the International Reading Association, children who do not read and write during the summer months face a big loss in their literacy growth when they begin the new school year. This means that the summer months offer a wonderful opportunity for families to help maintain their child’s reading and writing skills.

Here are some simple ways parents/caregivers can help sustain their child’s reading and writing abilities during the summer:

· Get caught reading and writing. Let your child see you engaging in everyday literacy activities such as reading the newspaper, making a grocery list, and most importantly, talking about what you do.

· Read and write to your child. Snuggle up with a good book and your child before bedtime. Share books on tape with your child or read aloud on long summer car trips. Let’s not forget about writing. Leaving short notes on the refrigerator, a nighttime message on a pillow, or a letter expressing your pride in an accomplishment encourages reading and demonstrates the power of words.

· Share the love of reading and writing together. Read some of the books, magazines or websites your child is reading and then discuss them together. Write a journal, scrapbook, or blog as a family, taking time to record daily events. You can even write group emails or letters to family members and friends.

· Visit www.readwritethink.org (click on “Summer Activities” on the left hand side of the screen) Discover several, free exciting reading and writing activities for you and your child to engage in this summer. These resources have been developed by teachers and other literacy experts.

Enjoy the “Lazy, Hazy, Crazy Days of Summer” and don’t forget to keep reading and writing!