Reading is Thinking
"Reading is Thinking" is our motto in Room 149. I work very hard to stress the importance of reading to each and every one of my students. With all of life's distractions- T.V.,video games, megamalls, sporting events, and so on- it is especially hard for children to choose reading over other extra curricular activities. Here are some ways you can help at home...
Be a model reader--Be an example to your child. Let them see you reading the newspaper, magazines, and books. Point out and discuss interesting facts. Talk about unusual words. Read to your child often and ask questions as you read. Reading aloud to your child not only lets them hear your voice and expression, but creates a wonderful bonding experience.
Make regular trips to the library--Get a library card for your child. The library is a valuable resource. Not only can your child practice selecting books that are "just right," computers can be helpful in reading as well. Help your child select books by examining the cover and reading the summary. Assist them in navigating through websites.
Let your child read to you--Provide positive feed back for your child. Ask general comprehension questions without turning it in to a lesson. Reading at home should not feel like school. Please consult me if you need ideas or notice any problems.
Provide a range of reading materials--Reading at home can be simple as reading the back of the cereal box or the comics from the newspaper. However, this should not be the only thing your child reads. Select a variety of fiction and nonfiction when you visit the library. Challenge your child to read billboards and the menu at your favorite restaurant.
Reading, like sports and special talents, improve with practice. Research shows that children who read daily are more likely to do better in and school and become readers later in life. Let's work together to make sure your child becomes a lifelong reader!
Reading Links for Parents
http://www2.scholastic.com/browse/parentsHome.jsp
Reading Links for Students
http://kids.nationalgeographic.com
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids
Textbook Link