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Promoting Literacy: Insights from Experts

As we approach summer break, many parents are concerned about maintaining their children's reading skills, especially with the looming prospect of the 'summer slide'—a regression experienced by students when they return to school. To combat this, NWEA, in collaboration with literacy experts, has shared valuable strategies to foster a culture of reading at home.

Understanding the Summer Slide

The summer slide refers to the loss of academic skills some students experience over the long break, particularly in reading and writing. This issue has been amplified by the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected students' learning trajectories significantly. Engaging families is critical to reversing these trends and supporting literacy development.

Effective Reading Strategies from Literacy Experts

1. Rewarding Reading

Jeannie Votypka, a Staff Learning Scientist at NWEA, suggests using scratch-off reading rewards as a fun way to encourage children. By writing various reading challenges beneath scratch-off tickets, children can earn rewards by completing designated tasks. This method incentivizes reading while keeping it enjoyable and engaging.

2. Shared Reading Experiences

According to Francie Alexander, Senior Vice President at HMH, reading together can enhance comprehension and vocabulary. Rather than allowing children to read alone, families can share books, taking turns reading pages or chapters. This interaction fosters a supportive environment while making reading a more social activity.

3. Establishing a Bedtime Reading Routine

Sara Velazquez, a Principal Learning Experience Designer, emphasizes the importance of reading at bedtime. By creating a routine where children choose books and read together, parents can help nurture a lifelong love of literacy. This dedicated time helps establish good reading habits in young readers.

4. Launching a Virtual Book Club

Shefali Parekh, Vice President of Services Content Development, shares her experience of starting a virtual book club with her nephew during the pandemic. This initiative not only kept them connected but also allowed them to delve into stories and reading strategies together, making the process interactive and rewarding.

5. Tailoring Approaches to Individual Interests

Grant Atkins, Director of Efficacy Research at NWEA, highlights the importance of recognizing that each child is unique. For instance, his family learned to engage a reluctant reader through drawing and creative expression, which eventually led to improved literacy skills.

6. Supporting Older Students

Amy Endo, Senior Director at NWEA, stresses that older students, including those with learning disabilities, benefit greatly from continued reading support. Utilizing audiobooks and multimedia resources can enrich their understanding while making challenging texts more accessible.

7. Exploring Literacy Beyond the Home

Miah Daughtery, Vice President of Academic Advocacy, encourages families to seek reading opportunities in everyday life. Whether visiting museums or parks, engaging with the surrounding text can reinforce valuable literacy skills and create meaningful experiences.

Conclusion

Implementing these strategies can significantly enhance children's literacy skills and instill a love of reading. With summer upon us, it's the perfect time for families to integrate these practices into their daily routines, paving the way for a successful return to school. For more tips and strategies for improving reading at home, visit NWEA’s Blog.

By making reading a priority, families can support their children's academic growth and ensure they continue to thrive, both in and out of the classroom.