Summer Reading for Children: Grades 3-5

Family Literacy Ideas: Grades 3 - 5
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In these grades, children find it easier to read and write, and they do it more quickly and accurately. They are no longer just learning how to read—they are using their reading skills to experience new stories and learn new ideas. This new ability to read on their own brings them joy. They love to read both stories and books of facts. At the same time, they still like to hear adults read stories, try out new words in conversation, and share their writing with teachers and family members.

You can support literacy at home by:
Speaking and Listening

Talk with your child about school, friends, and activities.
Encourage your child to share thoughts and feelings.
Listen to your child’s interests, concerns, likes, and dislikes. Ask your child to give you reasons for his/her opinions.

Reading

Ask your child to compare books he/she is reading now with other books already read.
Provide books to match your child’s interests. Ask him/her to keep track of favorite authors.
Set aside a quiet place and a specific time for reading and homework. Give your child encouragement.
Engage your child in making thoughtful decisions. For example, you might read the TV guide together and decide which show to watch.
Encourage and help your child read at least 25 books a year.

Drawing and Writing

Encourage your child to write in different forms (such as stories and poems) and to make the writing beautiful by using drawings and color.
Ask your child to share his/her writing with you.
Create a family newsletter to share with friends and relatives.
Ask your child to write it, and arrange for him/her to “interview” family members.

For more ideas, check out www.summerreading.org.

Excerpt from: Opening the Door to Learning: Literacy is a Family Affair, published by New Visions for Public Schools.

Summer Reading for Children: Grades 3-5

Recommended Reading: Grades 3 - 5