Apr 9, 2013 by Yolanda Fontanez-Coleman | Reading, Summer Slide Prevention
During the summer months learning loss does occur. It is important to prevent the standard 2.4 month learning loss. We know that reading is the key to preventing learning loss. However the way we READ makes all the difference! There are many ways parents can implement a successful and enjoyable summer reading program.
Read read read: It is important that the students read throughout the summer. Students should read books on their reading levels and they should read stories of interest. Reading books on the student’s level will build their fluency and overall reading skills.
Comprehension Practice: Parents should monitor their child’s comprehension skills. Ask questions during and after your child reads his book. Ask your child to summarize the story. Give your child some time to ask questions. If your child encounters difficult passages, allow them to reread them or read them together. Encourage your child to visualize what they are reading, have them play a “movie in their head” while reading. This is great way to make certain your child is reading and understanding the text.
Writing is Important: Incorporate writing into their reading program. Your child can have a writing journal that correlates with their summer reading program. They can “change” the ending of the story and write their own new ending. They can write a story about the main character or just write their own version of the story.
This summer you can prevent summer learning loss by implementing a successful reading program. Allow your child to choose the text and collaborate with your child. Make learning fun and interactive this summer!
Do you have other ways to make reading fun and interactive? Share your ideas with us!