Starting a Summer Reading Routine
by Rachel Ann Dennis, Customer Service Assistant, Central Children’s Department
Summer is here and it’s time to start exploring ways to incorporate reading into your child's new, school-free routine. Reading during the school year is often tied to assigned work, so the summer can be a perfect time to explore reading in a different way. In the book, How to Raise a Reader, the authors describe it perfectly: “School is where children learn that they have to read. Home is where kids learn to love to read.”
So how do we create a routine and an environment where reading is happening this summer while creating space for each child to discover what they love about reading? Here are some quick tips:
- Provide opportunities for your child to choose reading. A simple way to do this is to anticipate when there may be idle time. A basket of books in the car or bringing books along to an appointment are great options.
- Create a designated place to keep library books. Having a go-to place where new things to read stay makes it easier to pick something to read. A basket in the living room or in your kiddo’s bedroom is a simple option. It’s also an easy way to keep track of library books!
- Deep dive into a topic as a family. Go to the library and check out lots of books on a specific topic and explore it together. Lean into your child’s interests. If they ask a question or are excited about something, odds are there are plenty of library books available on the subject.
- Discover your kid’s “reading identity”. Visit one of the TCCL library branches and ask a staff member for help discovering your child’s Kids Read reading identity. After answering a few simple questions, you’ll receive a special reading folder with book suggestions and other fun resources for your child.
- Participate in Summer Reading Program! This summer, from June 1 – July 31st, every branch is participating in TCCL’s biggest annual event. It’s a fun and easy way for every family member to track the books they are reading and earn prizes! Don’t forget to check out the Summer Reading Program event guide for more information on the program and all of the fantastic events planned for summer 2023.
No matter what tips you integrate into your summer routine, the most important thing is to simply READ and the easiest way to do that is to have books available to read. We look forward to seeing you this summer!
Reference:
Paul, Pamela, et al. How to Raise a Reader. Workman Publishing, 2019.
