Reading keeps brains learning

Once school is out for the summer, teachers and parents are both often concerned with learning loss during the summer months. This is especially true at the end of the crazy year we've just gone through.

One simple activity that helps counteract this learning loss is reading. Whether children read on their own, read aloud with other kids, or with parents … it all helps. Parents reading aloud to their children is particularly beneficial for developing stronger vocabularies, increasing attention span, improving listening skills, strengthening cognitive skills and much more. In addition, reading together can build stronger family bonds and be an enjoyable shared experience.

If parents are not sure which books might appeal to their students, drop by the public library for excellent advice on books, authors, and genres. Finding an engaging book can draw a child into a world of adventures.

As the Clovis Municipal Schools has done in the past, we are continuing our Summer Reading Program for grades Pre-K through 8. Students will have received flyers and summer reading logs to take home, providing the details and a way to record the books they read during the summer months.

A number of local businesses have partnered with the school district to provide treat coupons for completed reading logs turned in at our Central Office, now called the G.C. Ross Administration Building (1009 Main St).

The Summer Reading Program runs from June 1 through Aug. 13. There is a reading log for grade level groupings: pre-school; kinder through 2nd grade; 3rd-5th grade; and 6th-8th grade. Students list the books they read, have their parents sign the logs and turn in to redeem for treat coupons (while the coupons last).

Upon turning in the reading logs, students can pick up additional reading logs and continue their reading adventures; or, they can simply download logs at this link to complete and turn in:

http://www.clovis-schools.org/instructional_resources/summer-reading.html

Reading is not only beneficial for children, but also for adults, a fact we all too often forget in these days of binge-watching programs on a digital device. Reading improves the brain, reduces stress, can lower blood pressure, support better sleep habits, along with a number of other important advantages for adults.

Napoleon noted, “Show me a family of readers, and I will show you the people who move the world.” So, grab a book and curl up for an adventure.

Cindy Kleyn-Kennedy is the instructional technology coordinator for the Clovis Municipal Schools and can be reached at:

[email protected]