Librarians Offer Tips To Keep Kids Reading All Summer Long

Few people have more experience getting children excited about reading than the librarians who staff school and community libraries. Several librarians from the around country recently offered their insight into how parents can keep their kids reading throughout the dog days of summer.

*Visit your local public library, which offers events and activities throughout the summer, as well as plenty of reading material. Research shows that if kids continue to read during the summer they do not lose any of their skills they have acquired over the prior school year.

*Make reading a family activity. When everyone gathers together at the end of a busy summer day, read a book aloud. It can be a great way to unwind.

*Consider enrolling your child in a youth book discussion group, or having them begin one of their own among friends. Some children respond better when they know other children are going to read and respond to a book. Parent/youth book discussion groups are also advantageous for inciting exciting discussions.

*For younger children, make story-time fun with homegrown activities, such as a puppet show. Children can make puppets based on characters in the books they are currently reading.

*When preparing for family road trips, stock up on audio books from your local library. Let your children choose some stories to listen to. Have family members share favorite ghost or adventure stores around the campfire at picnics or camping trips.

*On vacations, it is important to let kids pick out books they like to make reading fun. Pay attention to what your children like and help them select books — and don’t forget about nonfiction — it’s not just for homework! There is a lot of rainy day value with cookbooks, craft, and activity books.