Dear Parent,
Your child has learned a lot this school year. Summer reading and writing can help him/her continue this growth and provide smooth transition into the 2002-2003 school year. Some simple things that you can do to support your child's reading, writing, and learning are:
1. Read stories and informational writing to your child. Read with expression. Enjoy the language and illustrations. Have your child put the selection in his/her own words and share his/her favorite parts.
2. Encourage your child to read. The more s/he reads, the better s/he will read! Visit the library on a regular basis. Set aside a regular silent reading time for the family to enjoy books together!
3. Participate in family literacy and learning activities. Enjoy puppet shows, storytelling programs, concerts, museums, zoos, planetariums, etc. together. Participate in the summer reading program at your local library. Enjoy your time together while your child is preparing for next year's school success!
4. Encourage your child to pursue and read about his/her interests and hobbies. Help your child identify favorite authors, genres, series, topics, etc. that s/he likes to read.
5. Take advantage of real-world opportunities to support your child's reading, writing, and learning. Shopping, traveling, etc. provide excellent opportunities for your child to read labels, packages, maps, information, etc.
6. Supply your child with paper, pencil, crayons, and markers so s/he can write stories, draw pictures, make books, etc. Many children enjoy keeping a journal, writing notebook, or scrapbook during the summer.
7. Take advantage of internet resources to help your child develop as a reader, writer, and learner. The following web sites are recommended. You may gain access to the internet through your public library if you do not currently have internet access in your home.
Web Sites for Parents
Have a wonderful summer together!