Hello Everyone!
Did you know that 1 out of every 3 boys in American schools is in remedial reading by the time he is in 3rd grade? Michael Sullivan, author and reading expert, tells us that one reason this is true is because we (parents and educators) turn reading into WORK! How do we fix that? Here's one suggestion - take a break from reading levels. Reading harder books does not guarantee improvement and it may cause frustration. There is only one factor that determines improvement as a reader: PRACTICE. Therefore let children read what they want! Let them have fun with books!
Here at the Literacy Alliance, one way we encourage reading fun is through our teen storytelling group called the Book Busters. This group began in 2003 and has included 48 local high school students. Every fall and spring semester five to six teens practice for over a month to create a new program which is performed at Seminole County daycares, elementary afterschool programs, and special events such as PTA Literacy Nights and the UCF Book Fair. Each 30 minute program includes book-based puppet shows, skits, magic, science tricks, and songs which connect books with fun.
The Spring 2012 group is just beginning their season. We applaud these energetic teens who are making a difference in our community and helping children discover that reading is not work, but rather it is FUN! For more information on this program, visit our website thelitalliance.org/outreach/bookbusters.html or email diane@thelitalliance.org.
How do you make reading fun?
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