Spring is here—finally! Time to open the windows and break out the sandals. Moms and dads usually love this time of year because it means that kids can unglue themselves from the TV and spend less time underfoot and more time outdoors. While reading certainly makes a great cold-weather activity, be sure to keep up a regimen of daily reading during the spring months as well. To help you out, here are a few tips for making sure your little one stays on top of her literacy game during warmer weather.
- Offer interesting titles.
With the swingset and sandbox calling her name, you may notice your little one losing interest in reading. Don’t fret. It just means that you may need to step it up a notch in terms of what types of books you’re offering your child. Try tailoring your choices around her interests instead of just picking up the first book you see. For instance, if your little girl likes princesses, then why not look for some fairy tale titles? You may also find that choosing books featuring a favorite cartoon character will peak her interests.
- Have a reading routine.
As your child spends more time outdoors and away from his bookshelf, it can be easy for both of you to forget to devote time to reading. Having a set time each day for stories can make things easier. For instance, you might discover that reading for an hour after lunch or right before bedtime is a great way to keep literacy at the top of your daily priorities.
- Go high tech.
As I’m sure you know, technology makes everything more fun for kids these days! If you find your little one growing tired of traditional books, grab your laptop or tablet and look for some interactive ebooks. Remember, playing online reading games like the ones in the Red Apple Reading program is also a great way to make learning to read fun for your tot!
Of course, there’s no rule against outdoor reading activities. Singing rhyming songs while you give your child a push on the swing or playing alphabet iSpy on the front porch are wonderful springtime literacy exercises. Once you get the imagination juices flowing, the sky is the limit, and the world is your classroom!
How do you promote reading during the spring months? Let us know in the comments section!
