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Unlocking the Magic of Reading: 3 Steps to Raising a Book Lover
Beating the “Back to School” Blues
If you’re anything like me, your Monday through Friday mornings are If you’re like me, your Monday through Friday mornings are in no short supply of tears, complaints, blank stares, and sluggish movement…and that’s just the adults! Seriously, getting back into the routine is hard, for kids of all ages and for us as parents. The transition from those lazy summer days to a structured school routine can lead to stressful mornings and evenings without a proper game plan. A well-established "back to school" routine can make this transition smoother and set the tone for a successful academic year. Let’s explore 3 effective ways to help students get back into the groove and start the school year on the right foot!
1. Start Early and Gradually
One of the most common mistakes students and parents make is waiting until the last minute to adjust to the school routine. Instead, start early and transition gradually to ensure a seamless shift from summer break to the school year:
a. Gradual Bedtime Adjustment: Begin adjusting your child's bedtime gradually a couple of weeks before school starts. Move bedtime up by 15-30 minutes each night until it aligns with the school-night schedule. This gradual approach helps prevent sleep disruptions.
b. Morning Practice: Encourage your child to wake up at the same time they would for school, even during the summer. This practice helps them acclimate to the early morning routine, making it less of a shock when school begins.
c. Set a Morning Routine: Establish a morning routine that mimics what your child will do when school starts. This can include getting dressed, having breakfast, and packing their backpack. Practicing this routine helps students get back into the swing of things.
2. Create a Structured Daily Schedule:
A structured daily schedule is essential for maintaining consistency and predictability during the school year. Here's how to create one:
a. Time Blocking: Create a daily schedule that allocates specific time blocks for schoolwork, extracurricular activities, meals, and relaxation. Include breaks to prevent burnout.
b. Use a Planner or Calendar: Provide your child with a planner or use a digital calendar to keep track of assignments, tests, and important dates. Teach them to use these tools to stay organized.
c. Establish Homework Time: Set aside a dedicated time for homework each day. Ensure it's a quiet, distraction-free environment where your child can focus on their assignments.
3. Set Goals and Expectations:
Setting clear goals and expectations is crucial for a successful "back to school" routine. Here's how to do it effectively:
a. Goal Setting: Sit down with your child to discuss their academic and personal goals for the upcoming school year. Help them break these goals down into actionable steps.
b. Communicate Expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations regarding schoolwork, chores, and responsibilities. Discuss the importance of time management and balancing academics with other activities.
c. Encourage Independence: Encourage your child to take responsibility for their own tasks and time management as they get older. Gradually give them more independence in managing their routines.
d. Positive Reinforcement: Recognize and reward your child's efforts and achievements along the way. Positive reinforcement motivates students to stay on track and work towards their goals.
Establishing a successful "back to school" routine is crucial for students to thrive academically and establish a healthy work-life balance early in life. And let’s not discount the relief granted to parents! Remember that flexibility and open communication are key to adapting the routine as needed throughout the academic year!
Looking for academic help to get your child started, and continuing, on the right path? Join Joy of the Teach Tutoring Services today!
Samantha Baldwin M.A.T., Joy of the Teach
September 2023
Unlocking the Magic of Reading: 3 Steps to Raising a Book Lover
Unlock a Love of Reading!
We lose ourselves in books, we find ourselves their, too.
Anonymous
The journey to becoming an avid reader begins early in life. Parents and educators alike play a vital role in nurturing a lifelong passion for reading in our children. A study by the National Institute for Literacy found that children exposed to reading activities from an early age are more likely to develop strong reading habits that persist throughout their lives (National Institute for Literacy, 2008). Adults play a significant role in cultivating that enduring affection for books among children ages 5 to 12, a crucial age range to lay the groundwork for a lifelong love of reading (Cunningham & Stanovich, 1998). In this blog post, we will delve into three essential strategies to help foster an enduring passion for reading in young learners!
Create a Reading Oasis
The first step in cultivating a love for reading is to create an inviting and stimulating environment where books are readily accessible and reading is celebrated:
Build a Diverse Library: Research has shown that access to a diverse range of books can significantly impact a child's reading habits (Neuman & Celano, 2001). Fill your child's bookshelf with a wide variety of books that cater to their interests and reading level! Include picture books, chapter books, non-fiction, and fiction to pique their curiosity!
Design a Cozy Reading Nook: Set up a dedicated reading space in your home, a quiet corner where your child can immerse themselves in the world of books. Add comfortable seating, good lighting, and soft blankets to create an inviting atmosphere.
Regular Library Visits: Take your child to the local library regularly. Let them explore and choose books they find interesting. Libraries often offer reading programs and events that can make reading an exciting adventure.
Be a Reading Role Model
Children often follow the example set by their parents or caregivers. Be a reading role model to inspire your child:
Read Together: Spend quality time reading with your child, especially during bedtime. Studies have demonstrated that parental involvement in reading activities positively influences a child's reading development (Bus et al., 1995). Let your child choose a book and read it aloud to them. As they grow older, take turns reading paragraphs or pages, fostering their confidence and that all-important reading fluency!
Show Enthusiasm: Express your excitement about books and stories. Share anecdotes about your favorite childhood books or describe how reading has enriched your life. Your enthusiasm is contagious and can ignite their curiosity.
Read in Everyday Life: Showcase the importance of reading in daily life. Read aloud street signs, menus, recipes, and labels together. Highlight that reading is not just for books but a valuable skill in various situations.
Encourage Reading Exploration
To nurture a love for reading, encourage your child to explore various genres, topics, and formats:
Book Choices: Let your child select their own books, even if it means choosing a book you might not have picked. Respect their preferences, and over time, gently introduce them to different genres to broaden their horizons.
Reading Challenges: Create fun reading challenges or goals. For example, challenge them to read a certain number of books in a month or explore a particular genre they haven't tried before. Celebrate their achievements with small rewards or praise.
Join a Book Club or Reading Group: Consider enrolling your child in a book club or reading group where they can discuss books with their peers. Sharing thoughts and opinions about books can enhance their reading experience.
Fostering a love for reading in young students is a rewarding endeavor that will benefit them throughout their lives. By creating a welcoming reading environment, being a reading role model, and encouraging exploration, you can unlock the magic of reading in your child's heart and mind. Remember, the goal is not just to teach them to read but to instill in them the joy of reading that will last a lifetime!
Looking for academic help to get your child started, and continuing, on the right path? Join Joy of the Teach Tutoring Services today! JOTT Book Clubs will begin in January 2024!
Samantha Baldwin M.A.T., Joy of the Teach
October 2023