1. How to Prevent Summer Reading Loss

2. What is summer reading loss? the decline in childrens reading development that can occur during summer vacation times when children are away from the classroom and not participating in formal literacy programs. (Allington & McGill-Franzen,2003)

3. Researchers have uncovered evidence to suggest that the impact of summer reading loss on students in general, and on at-risk students in particular, is significant. (Mraz and Raskinski, 2007)

4. So, what can I do with my children to help prevent summer reading loss? Here are some Top 10 literacy tips for families…….

5. Visit your local library or our Midway Media Center this summer for free books!

6. Read TO your children every day. * read with good expression and fluency * be excited about the story * ask questions about the story * make predictions

7. Encourage older children to read to younger children.

8. Try a Read and Relax time each day. Create a positive climate for reading – reading should not be viewed as a chore.

9. Have kids read during transition times: -have books in the car -in the waiting room -while waiting at a restaurant

10. Dont forget to visit your local library or our Midway Media Center.

11. Find reading materials related to your childs interest – baseball, swimming, animals….

12. Listen to your child read. Use Handy Helpers to help figure out tricky words.

13. Use many kinds of reading material: Magazines Cooking or craft directions Internet

14. Have books, magazines, and the newspaper around the house. Let your child see YOU reading.

15. Set reasonable limits for television viewing and playing video games.

16. And, oh yeah……… Dont forget to visit your local library or Midways Media Center.