Your Child Should READ This Summer

Summer is officially here! Most of the schools in the South are already out for Summer break! All parents should be thinking about what their children will be doing this summer. Below are a few suggestions:

1. READ! READ! READ! Make sure your child is reading or being read to at least 15-30 minutes a day. Older children should be reading 30-60 minutes. If children don't read during the summer they will lose grounds on how many words per minute they were reading during the school year. This will effect the start of the next school year and put them behind. Research shows that student will lose 10-15 words per minute if they are not reading during the summer.

2. Take your child to the public library. Most have special programs weekly for children and it doesn't cost any money. Sign your children up for a library cards and let them check out books to read weekly. It can be a lot of fun visiting the library.

3. Make sure your child is active. Don't let them become couch potatoes during the summer or computer addicts. Get them outside for at least 30-60 when it is not too hot. Suggest they ride bikes, take a brisk walk, jog, play ball, swim, or cut the grass. Getting active can be a family goal and fun for everyone.

4. Eat healthier. Take a close look at what everyone in the family is eating. Cut out junk food, sugar drinks, and process foods as much as possible. Have the kids get involved in making up healthy menus and let them get involved in preparing the meals. It will pay off for the entire family.

5. Plan time to enjoy the summer. If you can go on a vacation. If you can not just plan to have fun right where you are. Check out what is going on in your community and take advantage of as many free activities as possible. If it is no more than taking a walk in the neighborhood and having pleasant conversations it is worth millions. Make sure your family is building memories.

To find out more information on what children can be doing during the summer, purchase my book, A Parent's Handbook: How to Get the Best Education Possible K-6. You can order my book from http://www.besteducationpossible.com/ .