12 Back-to-School Tips from Your Public Library
O
ne thing that librarians are always advocating for is reading. With kids back in school after summer break, parents might be nervous about how to best ensure their kids are staying engaged with their learning. It’s understandable that with many changes, like remote or hybrid learning, and less in-person socializing with friends, your child's mind may not be focused on reading. While we are all writing the new “how-to” book on ways to help kids stay enthusiastic about reading, these twelve tips are a good way to start and can help keep your kids on track:
1. Read with and to Your Child Kids learn by example. This is why it is important to model the type of behavior you want to see, as well as encourage their own growth and development by engaging with them. If you want your child to set aside time dedicated to reading, then you should too. Better yet, use this as an opportunity to spend quality time with
your child and pick up a book as well! Along with reading with your child, make sure to read to your child as well. This does not have to be limited to just children’s books. Reading aloud and taking turns reading is a great way to connect and support your child’s learning process. This interactive experience will engage your child in a positive way and help instill in them a love of reading and learning.
2. Be Consistent with Reading Times We can all agree that there has been plenty of instability and chaos in the world. With so many unexpected events happening in your child’s everyday life, make sure you create stability and consistency where you can. Setting aside specific times for reading will put some routine into your kid’s life. They can have some peace of mind knowing they can look forward to a steady activity each day. This will also help them stay on track with reading goals and encourage lifelong habits.
3. Let Your Child Control What They Read Our goal in libraries is to help instill a love of reading and plant the seeds of being a lifelong learner. The best way to go about achieving this is to offer your child control over what they read. This sense of autonomy creates a sense of selfdetermination, especially for reluctant readers. Whether they are interested in aliens, history, or fashion, give your child the freedom to discover whatever books, magazines, or comics satisfy their curiosity. Give your child the ability to make their own choices. Reading can give them a sense of confidence, power, and control over one aspect of their lives. Plus, your local librarians are there to help you help your child grow through discovery!
4. Ask Your Local Librarian for Book Recommendations Remember, librarians are experts who specialize in knowing everything there is to know about reading. Whether Continued on page 26
by EveryLibrary
8 • Central California Parent • September 2023