UNIVERSITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

HOME OF THE CHRISTIANS

ESTABLISHED 1965

SUMMER READING LISTS

Elementary School

 

“Studies show that reading as a leisure activity is one of the most powerful tools to increase reading comprehension, speed, and vocabulary. Unstructured reading for pleasure of materials that children select themselves is extremely effective in promoting literacy, even when compared to direct reading instruction. Significant learning losses occur over the summer if children don’t read.” – New York State Library

 

10 tips for growing readers:

1.   Begin reading to your children while they are still young.

      It is never too early!

2.   Choose a time of day that your family is relaxed and read together.

3.   Encourage your children to turn the pages of the book. 

      They enjoy setting the pace of reading time.

4.   Recognize that active children learn while they are playing and exploring.

      Read to them as they are moving.                                                                     

5.   Read the same story over and over again.                                             

      It is comforting to children and helps to develop language skills.

6.   Read together while you are out and experience some down time,

      such as when you are waiting in line.

7.   Sing to your children.

8.   Read Mother Goose and other nursery rhymes which are short and playful.

      They help to build vocabulary.

9.   Make the effort to let your children see you reading at home.

10. Remember that many libraries offer special programs.

      Make it a special time for you and your children to go enjoy these programs

      and even choose books together while you are there.

                                                                                                                                           

IDEAS FOR PARENTS for getting your children to read in the summer:

(taken from the May/June 2005 issue of Instructor magazine)

  • Make the Time:  Make it a set part of your daily summer schedule.
  • Shop Smart:  Build your child’s personal library for very little money by shopping garage sales and used book stores.
  • Become and Expert: “Read up on reading!” Go to www.scholastic.com/summerreading
  • Turn off the TV:  It’s very important to limit the amount of time your child spends in front of the TV.  Reading builds minds.  What does the TV usually do?
  • Reward Reading:  Use a sticker chart to keep track of your child’s reading and give him/her rewards such as a special outing with you.
  • Cook and Read:  Have your child help you prepare dinner by reading the recipes aloud to you.
  • Order Up:  Choose a good children’s magazine(s) so your child will look forward to getting his/her very own magazine in the mail and reading it.  Suggestions:  Nick Jr., Sports Illustrated for Kids, Kids Discover, Jack and Jill, and many more

 

 

 5520 University Blvd. West

Jacksonville, Florida 32216

Phone 904-737-6330

Designed and Maintained by Travis Williams