Now, don’t me get wrong, I agree. It is very important to keep kids reading during the summer. I fully support and promote this idea. I even created summer reading printables and book lists myself, if you’re interested, you can find them here.
However, I am also of the opinion that this zealous insistence for reading shouldn’t end with the close of summer. I am sure that your children, as part of their schoolwork have to read a certain number of books for class.
I find though, sometimes when children are forced to read certain books and read nothing else, they don’t enjoy reading as much. They don’t build the same strong and long-lasting relationship with books, as they would if they simply read for fun.
As Kate DiCamillo so wonderfully put it: “Reading should not be presented to children as a chore, a duty. It should be offered as a gift.”
I think a good combination of both reading books for school and reading books for the sake of reading is healthy.
The important thing is that your kids keep reading books!
2 Comments
ShootingStarsMag
I assume summer reading is focused on most because kids aren’t in school and therefore, they aren’t being made to read. But I agree, that reading should be something that is done all year round – and not just school required books, because those aren’t always going to suit your kid. Great ideas here!
-Lauren
Annette
I insist on 30 minutes reading every day. Builds in good habits for all. 🙂