Almost every student has a summer reading list to conquer. Some children love summer reading and can’t wait to dive into the books. Other dread it. If your child dislikes required reading, I have five tips for you:
- Start early and space reading out over the next few weeks. Plan a related reward for each book.
- Is there an assignment to complete after the book? Find the directions and make sure she understands what to do before reading. That way, she can pick up cues as she reads. (Even better: Ask her to find the directions and read them aloud to you.)
- Create a routine and a comfortable place to read. In a treehouse? By the pool? Tucked away on the porch with lemonade and cookies?
- If a book is challenging, have everyone in the family read the same book, together or separately. Invite grandparents to read it, too. Then talk about it over a book dinner.
- Complete the assignment right after reading is finished and keep it out where your child can see it. She’ll use it in the following days to remember what the book is about.
Everyone responds to praise and don’t be afraid of using it abundantly while helping a child complete a summer project, a difficult book, or many books! It boosts your child’s confidence when you compliment her thoughtfully and often. Two suggestions:
- “Emily, I’m proud of you for sticking with that book. Doesn’t it feel good to accomplish something difficult?”
- “Luis, I love to see you disappear into a book. I can see your mind learning new things when you read.”
Let me know how any of these work for you.
Education Spring 