As we look toward the final six weeks before the summer holidays, our focus in the LC and classrooms is shifting. We want to move beyond "skilling it," the technical practice of decoding and fluency. Instead, we want to move toward "killing it" by fostering a genuine love for reading.

Research consistently shows that when children read for pleasure, they perform better across all academic subjects. However, the goal of summer reading should not be about checking a box. It should be about discovery, relaxation, and wonder. When students choose their own books and read for fun, they are far more likely to maintain their progress over the long break.

Start the Routine Now

Six weeks may seem like a long time, but it is the perfect window to establish a "Summer Reading Habit" while the school routine is still in place. Here are three ways to start that transition today:

• The "Basket of Choice" Strategy: Place a basket in a common area of your home filled with graphic novels, magazines, and non-fiction books. Let this be an "anytime" resource that is separate from school assigned reading.

• Family Reading Time: Dedicate 15 minutes in the evening where everyone in the house reads their own book. When children see their parents reading for pleasure, they view it as a lifestyle rather than a chore.

• The "Sneak Peek" Visit: Start talking about summer reading destinations. Whether it is a local library, a bookstore, or your own digital collection, help your child build a "To-Be-Read" list now so they are excited for day one of vacation.

Tips for Every Learner

Remember that reading comes in many forms. Audiobooks are a fantastic way to engage with complex stories, especially for students who are balancing busy summer commitments or traveling. Graphic novels and comics are also high value reading. They build visual literacy and keep students engaged with fast paced plots.

The goal is simple: help your child find a book that they cannot put down. If a child says they "hate reading," it usually just means they have not found the right story yet. Use these next six weeks to go on a "story hunt" together.

By making reading a natural part of your family's daily rhythm now, you ensure that your child heads into the summer break with a curious mind and a full bookshelf.

Warmly,
The ES Admin Team

Article:

Sharenting Slip-Ups

Podcast:

Ever stood up for a friend who's being excluded?