Are you worried about your child’s literacy skills taking a hit during the summer break? Seasonal literacy challenges can crop up when students are out of school for an extended period, leading to the dreaded ‘Summer Slide’. But fear not, there are fun and engaging ways to keep young readers on track during the summer months.
The Importance of Summer Literacy
Before we dive into specific activities, let’s discuss why summer literacy is so crucial. Research has shown that students can lose up to two months of reading skills over the summer if they don’t engage in regular reading and literacy activities. This can put them at a disadvantage when they return to school in the fall, as they have to spend valuable time catching up instead of moving forward.
Summer Reading Bingo
One fun way to keep kids reading and learning over the summer is to create a Summer Reading Bingo board. This interactive game encourages students to complete various literacy-related tasks throughout the summer, earning them a prize or reward upon completion.
Here are a few examples of tasks you can include on your Summer Reading Bingo board:
- Read a decodable book under a tree
- Find 5 words with short ‘a’ sounds
- Write a short story about your favorite summer activity
- Visit the library and check out a book about a new topic
- Read a book by a diverse author
Why Summer Reading Bingo Works
Summer Reading Bingo is an effective tool for preventing the ‘Summer Slide’ for several reasons. First, it provides a fun and interactive way for students to stay engaged with reading and literacy activities. By turning reading into a game, children are more likely to view it as a fun and enjoyable activity rather than a chore.
Additionally, Summer Reading Bingo encourages students to explore a variety of literary genres and topics. By completing tasks such as reading a book by a diverse author or visiting the library, students are exposed to new ideas and perspectives that can broaden their worldview and increase their empathy and understanding of others.
In Conclusion
Summer literacy challenges can be a real concern for parents and educators, but with the right tools and strategies, it is possible to prevent the ‘Summer Slide’ and keep students engaged with reading and learning throughout the summer months. Summer Reading Bingo is just one example of a fun and effective way to keep kids on track and ensure that they return to school in the fall ready to hit the ground running. So why not give it a try this summer and see the positive impact it can have on your child’s literacy skills?
