For Parents & Guardians

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Share a love of Reading

Reading should be fun and not a struggle. Here are a few things to keep in mind with your reader.

Reading endurance - You may find that your student may not be able to read for more than 15 minutes at a time. Similar to physical activity, students need to learn to build up their reading endurance adding a few minutes each week.

Pleasure reading material - If it appears your student only wants to read graphic novels, books that appear to be below their reading level, or the same book over and over, it is okay. Just think of what you like to read when you're on vacation. Pleasure reading should be stress releiving not the cause of stress. Sometimes readers take comfort re-reading a favorite book to unwind, where they can take their imagination to a world they enjoy spending time.

Any reading is good reading - Reading a graphic novel, comic book, magazine, or listening to an audiobook is considered real reading. Audiobooks build listening skills, are engaging, and can help increase comprehension of a book's plot. Your student can also do a relaxing activity like drawing, coloring, or crafting while listening.

Make reading a family activity - Each family member can read (or listen to) the same book or have a weekly dinner in which each family member shares what they are reading. Students can read to younger siblings or even a pet. You can take turns reading out loud with your student or make plans to attend the library regularly or perhaps go to an author visit. The Walpole Public Library, as well as An Unlikely Story in Plainville, The Blue Bunny in Dedham, Park Street Books, in Medfield, and Barnes & Noble in Walpole all host interesting reading events.

Finding good reading material - Whatever your student takes an interest in makes for good reading material. Try out many different formats such as a sports magazine, comic book, reading sections of a nonfiction book, a book in verse, reading and making recipes from a cookbook, following instructions in a craft book, etc. to find what clicks with your student. Below are links to award winning and highly recommended books. Enjoy!