But…it’s SUMMER!

Do kids need a break from reading during the summer months?

The short answer – no.  Can summer reading be fun?  Absolutely!  Like adults, kids need to engage in activities that “exercise” their brains and help them to stay sharp.  Reading (a little bit every day) during the summer is essential for retaining already learned information, and results in the development of higher level thinking skills needed to be successful in the coming school year.

Now the tricky part: convincing them…

• Create reading challenges: don’t reinvent the wheel!  Google is your best friend.  Search “summer reading challenge” or “summer reading BINGO.”  Make sure you have a choice board of prizes that entice your child (especially if he/she isn’t intrinsically motivated to read during summer vacation) – bring a friend to the spray park, ice cream sundaes, tent in the back yard, or beach day!  The possibilities are endless.

• Organize a book club: gather the readers!  Choose a high-interest novel or series of picture books that everyone can read or listen to.  Host a meeting upon completion with pre-prepared topics for discussion.  If you want to get creative, you can even incorporate a theme that aligns with the text.  This is a great way to purposely connect kids over the long breaks. Don’t forget the snacks!

• Take advantage of free programs at the library: Regina Public Library offers a host of summer programs for all ages at their local branches. These unique sessions range from storytelling, read-alouds, language learning, and music.
  https://www.reginalibrary.ca/attend/programs

• Design a special outdoor reading space: have your child work with you to choose a shady reading nook outside.  Reading in nature fosters deeper connections between text and the world around.  Ensure the space is comfortable, cozy, well-lit, and pest-free.

Take off your socks, throw on your sunnies, grab a cool lemonade, and bury your nose (sunscreened of course) into a great book this summer!

Written by Kimberly Desautels, Educational Strategist with Wildflowers