Summer Reading Program
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The Calhoun Elementary/Jr High PTO is organizing a Summer Reading Program this year.
It’s well documented in studies that children – especially younger children – lose a significant amount of their reading and math skills over the summer, as much as 20% – 30%. This phenomenon is known as the ‘Summer Slide’ and it is a challenge faced by teachers every fall as they brush-up on the skills students’ lost over the summer. Like any newly acquired skill, it takes practice to become proficient.
Calhoun County School Administration is working to combat the Summer Slide by putting on fun, educational day-camp style classes that will keep kids’ brains and bodies engaged; the PTO sees the Reading Program as an extension of this effort throughout the summer.
“We hope to help build a culture of literacy locally, and to potentially spark a love of reading for fun and enjoyment, while working to minimize the ‘summer slide,’” the PTO said in a release.
During June and July, the PTO will be hosting a series of ‘Stories in the Park’ at various parks throughout the county. An adult volunteer will read aloud, followed by a craft or activity and a healthy snack. There will also be a giving-library where students can choose books that appeal to them. Summer access to books can be a challenge in our community.
Children will track their reading and near the end of the summer, there will be age-appropriate parties for those who successfully read a book. The events will be open to all Calhoun children, regardless where they attend school.
How you can help:
• Volunteer to read! Every effort will be made to accommodate the volunteer’s preferred date, time and location. Volunteers can contact Peggy Hall ([email protected]) or Rachel Bick ([email protected]); a sign-up sheet can also be found on the Calhoun elementary School PTO’s Facebook page.
• Donate books! Books for any age are gratefully accepted. Books can be dropped off at the CES office, the County Highway Department or the Fill-In Station.
More Ways to Help Prevent the Summer Slide:
• Let kids read what they want, encourage them to branch out and find their joy
• Engage in smart play; many games, puzzles and toys utilize math and reading concepts without being a dry learning session. Cooking is a great way to practice fractions & have fun together.
• Get out of the house; doing things in a new environment stimulates the brain and promotes learning. Try reading about & visiting a historic site; or come read in the park.
