As summer quickly approaches, I always think of that old schoolyard chant: "No more homework, no more books, no more teachers' dirty looks!" It's true that your kids do need a break over the summer from homework and teachers, but no books? No way! Reading should be a constant in your child's life no matter what the time of year. If your child is not a big reader, summer is a perfect time to instill a love of books because, as some studies reveal, children risk losing an entire grade level of reading just by not reading during the summer.
Try these strategies to get your child reading this summer—and all year long:
- Go to the library.
The library is a great place to visit in the summer. Besides getting out of the hot sun, it offers the perfect opportunity to empower your child to pick out books that interest her. Depending on your child's age, you can even venture out of the children's section and explore other areas like biography, mystery, or science fiction.
- Subscribe to magazines.
Whether your child is in preschool or high school, there are literally thousands of magazines for kids today on every topic imaginable—music, fashion, wildlife, sports, and more. Talk with your child about what topics interest him. Then subscribe to a magazine or two that he would enjoy.
- Set aside family reading time.
Kids today lead busy lives and sometimes reading falls by the wayside. To avoid this, set aside time each night for family reading. Turn off the television and sit together as a family in the living room. Everyone should read, including Mom and Dad. By modeling the joy you take in reading, your child will take your cue and hopefully develop a lifelong love of reading.
- Expand beyond the summer reading list.
The pressure of a summer reading list sometimes makes children feel like they can't read anything else. Unfortunately, if the books on the list don't interest your child, she may end up not reading at all. Review the list with your child. If there is nothing that excites her, find something else that will. Start with a book she wants to read then return to the list later on.
- Read up on your summer vacation.
Going away this summer? Trips present a perfect opportunity for your child to be the vacation expert. Take out books about your vacation spot from the library and get brochures and articles from a local travel agency. Encourage your child to "read up" on what there is to see and do, and then have him take on the role of tour guide when you arrive.
Summer vacation is all about taking a break, relaxing, and having fun. Swimming, playing sports, camping, and hanging out with friends should be encouraged, but also help your child recognize that there is nothing more enjoyable than curling up in the shade of a big tree with a great book.