5 Steps for a Successful Start to Summer Reading

Thinking about summer reading? One way to help your child become a stronger reader and encourage your child to enjoy reading is to make his own reading corner, creating a place and space to keep the books he likes and collects.

The “reading corner” doesn’t need to be fancy or large – most homes don’t have that kind of space. You don’t even need to buy all of the books – fun library books need a home, too! The point is to make your kid’s “reading corner” a special place that you and your child have made together. All you really need is:

• A small bookcase or shelves
• Something comfortable to curl up in – a soft chair, beanbag chair, or squashy cushions
• Good light to read by

5 steps to creating a great summer reading corner:

1. Discuss with your child what kind of “reading corner” space he wants and what kind of space is practical within your home. Will it be in his room? Maybe it can be in a corner of the living room or dining room. (When choosing a space, be sure to think about possible distractions in those areas that may make it harder for him to focus on reading.)




2. Have your kid gather together some favorite books, the ones he wants to put in his own library. This will give you both an idea of the space needed. Talk about providing room for adding books and magazines.




3. Set up a bookshelf or shelves that you have in the house. Or, build a “brick and board” bookcase familiar to college-bound students, using boards as shelves and bricks or crates as the risers between the shelves.




4. Once the bookcase is set up, help your kid set up his “reading corner.” Add a comfy chair and a reading lamp. Then, encourage your child to personalize the space – this is his private space for enjoying books! Encourage him to hang up posters, artwork or schoolwork that he’s proud of. The more your child can make the space his own, the more likely he is to use the space and stay motivated for learning over the summer.




5. The final step is to help your kid build his collection of reading materials that he enjoys. Start with books you have around the house, but you’ll also want to add some new titles to help your child get excited about the new space. Take a trip to the book store or head to a local library and grab some favorites to stock the shelves. You can also make giving books a family tradition for birthday, holiday, or start-of-summer presents!

How are you setting up for a successful start to summer reading? What fun learning activities for kids are you planning with your child this summer?

Activity from Making the Grade: Grades 3-4, Creating a Successful Learning Environment at Home.