Summer break is here, but that doesn’t mean taking a break from reading.
“The pressure is off, school’s out, the days are longer,” said Mindy Berry Walker, executive editor of The Week Junior.
She highlighted that summer is an ideal time for parents to cultivate a child’s love for reading, as it is a skill that lasts a lifetime.
The Week Junior recently unveiled its 50 most loved books by kids, based on a survey of 250 children nationwide.
For kids who are not enthusiastic about reading, Berry Walker suggests introducing them to the fantasy genre.
“Every year when we poll our kids, that’s the genre they like the most,” Berry Walker noted, “and the good news is there are many fantastic fantasy series available.”
Justyn Rampa, a regional manager at the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library, also recommends getting children involved in a book series, especially older kids, to avoid the dilemma of choosing the next book.
The ‘summer slide’
Scholastic reports that children in third to fifth grades lose around 20% of their reading progress over the summer.
To keep kids engaged, Berry Walker advises parents to align reading materials with their child’s interests.
“I assure you there’s a book on that topic,” she mentioned, “whether it’s astronauts, mummies, sports, or ballet, there’s something out there.”
Another tip from Berry Walker is allowing kids to stay up later for “extra book time.”
Engage in Reading
Rampa suggests that reading isn’t limited to bedtime. Find a cozy spot outdoors or indoors where everyone, including parents, can read together.
“Resist the temptation of scrolling through your phone,” he advised. “Grab a book and read to show your kids that you value reading too.”
Parents can also make use of programs and resources at local libraries. For instance, the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library offers young readers a reward for completing a 25-day challenge.
“The focus is on embracing reading and fun and letting kids know that both can coexist,” Rampa pointed out.
The Week Junior has its own challenge. By reading three books, children have the chance to win free books, and one lucky child will have a video call with an author.
Experts emphasize that audiobooks, comics, and magazines also count as reading material.
“I enjoy reading chapter books because they help me learn new words,” said third-grader Pattie Turner from Texas, a reminder that every page matters.
