10. Encourage a purpose for writing
Children love writing when it has meaning. Take a look at these simple ways to encourage writing over the summer.
- Postcards when visiting new places
- Thank-you notes
- Shopping lists
- Menus for family meals
- Letters to friends and family
- Invitations
- Birthday cards
- Comic books
11. Turn Car Rides into Learning Time
Here are a few games to play:
- Alphabet games
- License plate search
- Storytelling
- Would You Rather?
- 20 Questions
- Category games
- I Spy
- Sing songs and make up new ones
12. Encourage Independent Reading- back to the libraries
Children build confidence when they choose their own books. All reading counts. Allow them to read what they love. Including:
- Graphic novels
- Animal books
- Sports magazines
- Joke books
- Beginner chapter books
- Picture books
- Nonfiction
And remember, they are watching you and will value what you value. Place a value on reading and make sure they see you.
- Modeling your joy of reading to your child is one of the most important things you can do as a parent. It encourages their interest in reading and growth.
- Model searching for and reading magazines and books
- Model bringing a reusable bag to the library to carry and store checked-out books. This helps with organization and responsibility. Having their own special bag will also keep them clean and ready to return on time.
- Show your child that you trust them to make good book choices by giving them time to research what they like and find books to match those interests. With age-appropriate guidance and a lil help from the children’s librarians, they will grow in confidence. Making their own book selections encourages independence.
Check your local Dollar Tree for lots of fun papers, journals, thank-you cards, and even grocery shopping lists. Enjoy the shopping list and writing paper to get you started.
Here’s to great reading!
Phelicia
