Students and parents wait all year for summertime. A couple of months to relax sounds so good. Alas, with that last ring of the school bell comes summer reading. Your child may dread the thought of having to do anything remotely associated with school over the summer. You don't relish the idea of constantly nagging for it to get done. It doesn't have to be this way. Summer reading can be fun! Here are some tips to get all of you through. These will also encourage an overall interest in reading.

1. Be a role model.
If your child sees you read, he will be more encouraged to do the same.
2. Get a magazine subscription.
Children love to get things in the mail in their name.It's special and they usually can't wait for the next edition.
3. If your child sees a movie she really likes, get the book about it.
Usually books have more detail and add to the story line.
4. Get a riddle or joke book.
Some children simply do not like to read. Keep a riddle or joke book handy for car rides. Let your child ask you some riddles or tell you a joke. She may find them amusing and become interested.
5. Read recipes or project directions.
Have your child read the ingredients/instructions for making chocolate chip cookies or directions for assembling a new purchase. The results can be very rewarding.
6. "All-read"
Set time aside for every member of the family to curl up with a book or magazine.
7. Don't use reading as a punishment.
If your child associates reading with something negative, it will become negative.
8. Ask for help getting information.
Let your child help you with vacation plans or similar activities.
9. Write a "book" or journal.
Ask your child to write a few sentences at the end of each day. By the end of the summer, he'll have a whole collection of adventures.
10. Read everywhere.
Read road signs and billboards when traveling and read food labels when shopping. Opportunities are endless!

If your child needs additional assistance and motivation, look into our "Summer Reading List" program. The number of hours vary according to grade level, and three different categories of grade groups are offered. This 1-on-1 instruction focuses directly on your child's needs and his/her specific required reading is used. Call our office or visit our website for more information.