Did you know that when kids continue to read over the summer, it has a positive impact on school achievement? In fact, studies show that reading for just two hours each week makes a huge difference. In an effort to beat the “summer slide,” we are sending out weekly tips and ideas to support our readers over the summer months. To receive these weekly tips, you just need to “subscribe” to one of our K-6 building’s emailed news bulletins. Here’s a look at our reading suggestions so far this summer:
- CLIMB PART 3, June 29: Books Go Along With the 4th of July and More! With the 4th of July right around the corner, consider exploring books with your student(s) about the history of Independence Day, or fireworks, or read about parades, float building, the origins of our flag, and much more. If your family is doing something over the 4th of July to celebrate, then read about it too! Many books can be found online and in your local library to help learn about our country’s independence and the importance of 4th of July. You can also find many craft ideas too to help celebrate the 4th at your library and online. Here’s a helpful link to July fireworks celebrations across West Michigan. If you’re looking for additional book ideas, arts and crafts, and games to help children learn about the 4th, then consider searching on Pinterest. Then after the 4th of July, turn to other things this summer to support reading, learning and exploration. Check out the Michigan activity pass information to help plan some educational adventures to museums, zoos, and other places of interest.
- CLIMB PART 2, June 22: Free local reading programs! The Kent District Library (KDL) has some wonderful programs for children this summer. Consider signing your child up for a library card too! Please visit your local library or go to www.kdl.org/summer-reading to find out more about their great programs. KDL also has several computers that families can use to access online resources. Take a trip to the library and explore! And speaking of free programs … Barnes & Noble has a free summer reading program for kids in grades 1-6. With this program, no purchases are necessary and kids earn a free book when they read eight books. Find out more about the Barnes & Noble program by clicking here.
- CLIMB PART 1, June 15: Take this fun summer reading challenge! Listed here are ideas to spark literacy fun for the whole family, (created by Reading Rockets).