Released June 25, 2009

STILLWATER, Okla. –The final school bell has rung and it is summertime for youngsters across the state. What activities do you have planned for the summer?

How about reading?

Studies show making the summer months a time for reading adventures may help children perform better when school starts in the fall.

“It’s often difficult to fit reading in a summer schedule since there are many outdoor activities and other interruptions that children may find more exciting than reading,” said Debbie Richardson, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension parenting assistant specialist. “Yet, encouraging children to read throughout the year may allow them to develop a life-long habit of reading, along with maintaining a knack for reading for enjoyment.”

To make summer reading fun and so children do not feel like they are still in school, Richardson suggests the following ideas to help parents develop their children into year-around readers:

• Read with your children at least 20 minutes everyday and give them your full attention when reading together.

• Read for enjoyment. Allow your child to choose the books they are interested in and let them touch the books, turn the pages and discover the pictures. Even allow them to read aloud to you.

• Stop reading when your child loses interest. Most short sessions are effective.

• Re-read your child’s favorite book. Young children sometimes like the same book read over and over again.

• Allow your child to read a variety of materials. Almost any age appropriate material is good, including children’s magazines, comic books, instruction booklets for games and traditional books. Reading anything that assists in building children’s vocabulary and comprehension will be beneficial to their reading comfort level.

• Use enthusiasm and give different voices to the different characters.

• Let your children get to know the book. Allow them to comment on what they see and hear, ask about numbers and shapes. Try to relate the story to your child’s experiences.

• Visit the local library. Go often and borrow books to allow your child to discover his interests.

• Be a role model – children learn from example. If they see their parents reading, they too will want to join in on the fun!

“Once children discover the types of books they enjoy, reading will become more of a treat and they will look forward to participating in this activity,” Richardson said. “Taking the time to read is important to you and your child, and summer is a great time to enjoy a good book.”

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http://www.dasnr.okstate.edu/Members/katie.reim-40okstate.edu/reading-is-a-good-summer-activity

Editor: Katie Reim, 405-744-6792, katie.reim@okstate.edu