Raise a Reader This Summer!

Everyone who knows me knows I am a big fan of PBS.  I am super impressed how a public broadcasting system is playing a vital role in helping to prevent "the summer slide."  The Summer Slide is a loss of reading skills during the summer months due to a lack of access of books or reading material. However, I would include a lack of motivation to read, even if one has reading access and reading material.  Reluctant Readers, or those who struggle with reading have a greater chance of losing their skills if not practiced, so the gap becomes even wider because these students were already considered "behind" during the school year.  This sounds depressing, I know.  However, don't fret and stay positive.  Knowledge is power and now that you're aware of this, there is so much you can do.  So keep reading below to discover simple, practical ways to keep your child's mind creative and active this summer!

Not only are the PBS programs aired around a summer theme meant to build background knowledge, but the pbs.org website listed below suggests ways to prevent the "summer slump."

PREVENT THE SUMMER SLUMP

Research shows that children who don’t maintain reading skills over the summer are likely to start the upcoming school year at a disadvantage. Here are our top tips to prevent the summer slump:

• Tip #1: Integrate reading adventures into your daily routine.
• Tip #2: Explore your local library.
• Tip #3: Bring learning tools with you on the road.
• Tip #4: Find educational activities you and your child can do together indoors and outdoors.
• Tip #5: Look for books and programs that feature your child’s favorite characters.

Raise a Reader This Summer!




What's great about this article is these ideas are practical and meant to be easily adapted into your everyday activities. They also utilize the free and accessible resources in your local community.  Hope this resource and article was helpful as we all come together to help raise readers this summer!