Sometimes, getting children to read in the summer can seem
impossible, especially in the technology focused time that we live in. There
are many benefits to reading outside of the classroom.
Research shows that children who read for pleasure perform
better in school. Children who read more than their peers are better spellers
and have a more extensive vocabulary. They also get higher scores on the SAT. They
get to explore their imagination.
Now that school is out, children have much more free time.
Some of that time should be spent reading. Parents are encouraged to make age
appropriate books readily available to their kids.
Some ideas of making reading for pleasure more appealing
would be putting a basket of books in the car or even reading to their child at
infancy. Even after a child can read, it is recommended that parents continue
to read to them “out loud.”
Parents should lead by example. If a child sees their parent
reading the child is more likely to read. Reading to a child before bedtime
will help relax them, leading to a better nights sleep. This summer, take your
children to the library or take a “field trip” to a local used bookstore.
Reading is to the mind, what exercise is to the body. This
is the summer to shape up. Check out the Infinite Eye Care Reading Bug program.
Kids of all ages can sign up, win prizes, and have fun reading
throughout the summer. There is a program for all age groups.
