Reading

THE most important thing to do this summer is READ!  Having gone from first to second grades and then second to third grades, I must stress that even my best readers have dropped reading levels when they “took the summer off.”  Here are some fun ways to keep reading fresh:

· Have your child read into a tape  recorder and then listen to themselves while following along in the text.  They can also record themselves on RAZ-kids.

· To work on fluency, time your child reading a familiar text and write it down.  Each time they read the text their fluency will improve.  This builds confidence.

· Many wonderful children’s books have been made into movies.  Choose a movie your child wants to see and read them the book first (Reading books to your child and discussing new vocabulary also helps with writing).

· Visit your local libraries.  There are a lot of wonderful summer programs at our libraries that make reading fun!  I will be posting links to the libraries on my blog.
· Try reading in different places~ outside by a favorite tree, in a tent, in a fort made of cushions.  Use your imagination!

· Finally, (if you haven’t already) start a routine.  Set aside 10-15 minutes each night to read with your child.  It is a wonderful way to end the day.

Here are some great interactive sites to encourage reading and reading strategies.
http://www.roythezebra.com/
http://www.storylineonline.net/
http://pbskids.org/lions/
http://pbskids.org/superwhy/#/home