Reading

Want to help build the classroom library? I have a solid beginning library but it is always growing. My Amazon wishlist.

RESOURCES:

Great site for book recommendations here. Socially powerful book suggestions by top educator, Donalyn Miller here. Some of the recommendations are for more mature teens, so still might want to read the review or check on Common Sense Media for further guidance.

Tips to support your readers:

Your student has assigned reading of 20 minutes per night Monday through Friday, although I recommend every night as a great habit. Get involved by talking to your child about their daily reading!

PROVIDE A QUIET TIME AND SPACE FOR READING

Make sure there is a time and place each night where your child can focus on reading. Turn off television, video games, and the internet for reading time.

ENGAGE IN CONVERSATIONS ABOUT READING

Ask your child to tell you about his or her book:

● Avoid the question, “Did you read for 20 minutes?”

● Replace it with, “What happened in your book today?”

● Show interest by asking follow-up questions about the story, its characters, and conflicts.

● Ask your child what he or she thinks of the characters in the book, or the book in general. Do they feel like the book is about them or does it let them imagine someone else's life?

This is a wonderful, neutral way to have conversations with adolescents about a wide variety of issues, as they become more independent. (Books can be read and discussions can be had in any language!)

DEVELOP A RELATIONSHIP AROUND BOOKS

The following activities can help build rich relationships with your child around reading that will increase his or her motivation to read:

● Find out what kind of books your child enjoys. Take a trip to a bookstore or library to select exciting new books to read. Avid readers may be ready for a Kindle or other e-reader so cut down on the book piles.

● Read together. Have your child read aloud to you, or read aloud to him or her from the chosen book. Never too old for reading aloud!

● Share a book you are reading or have read with your child.

● Read silently at the same time. When your child reads his or her book, take out your book and read in a quiet place together. Then have a conversation about what you are reading.