The National Center for Family Literacy reports "parents reading with children improves children's language skills and heighten their interest in books."

Is Your Home Reader Friendly?

Parents, ask yourselves a few of these questions:

• Do your children see adults or older siblings reading (and talking about what they read) at least three times a week?
• Do you ever turn off the TV and substitute reading time?
• Can you name a book or story your child is reading this week at home?
• Do your children read a variety of types of reading materials (magazines, newspaper comics, picture books, books on tape, etc.)?
• Do you visit your local library to check out books, listen to a story, or spend time just book browsing? (Libraries have wonderful summer programs and on going Story Time sessions.)
• Do you make reading important enough to make it fun.  Encourage your child to read books not only at their comfort zone but a little above that level to challenge them.

It's not always easy to introduce or maintain time for reading in a growing child's schedule, but it can be done, and it can be done with enjoyment and success.  Making the most out of your time by planning in advance and having a regular scheduled time to sit with your child to read will encourage and maintain an interest in reading.  The most important thing you, as a parent, can do to encourage success in school for your child is to READ with them.  This action alone is one of the foundational steps to promote life long learning for your child and their academic success in their future.

SO, OLEANDER BEARS….LET'S GET STARTED READING!