It’s not too late to help your children get “reading fit” this summer and start the new school year off strong in September. Research shows that children who don’t read over the summer can lose significant knowledge and start the new school year at a lower level than where they were the previous year. This ‘summer slide’ can snowball over time, leading to further skill loss each year.
We’ve put together some ideas and reassurance for the school year ahead. There’s still time to enjoy the last few weeks of summer while getting ‘reading fit’ and ready for school!
Start a Good Reading Routine
Try to establish a good reading routine now, so when school begins, children are already in the headspace for learning. Reluctant readers are much less likely to resist reading when it becomes part of a regular routine. Bedtime may not always be the best time for younger children to read, as they might be tired. However, listening to a bedtime story is still a hugely beneficial part of their reading journey!
Incorporate Reading into Summer Activities
If you’re heading off on holiday in these last few weeks, encourage your child to keep a scrapbook. Don’t forget about good old postcards, which grandparents are sure to appreciate! Audiobooks on long journeys are also a great way to keep interest in stories alive.
Choose Books That Inspire
Make sure your child has access to books that inspire and excite them. Enjoy selecting titles from your Reading Chest favourites list. These can be from any level—perhaps your child just loves dinosaurs, so pick those books even if they’re a bit easy or hard. It will spark discussions and help get them back into the rhythm of opening books.
Be Confident with Phonics
Teaching methods at school can be daunting, especially with the reliance on phonics in the early stages of learning to read. Be confident supporting your child at home and familiarise yourself with how phonics is taught in schools. There are lots of helpful resources online, such as Oxford Owl Phonics Videos, to help guide you.
Prepare for a Smooth Start to the School Term
By getting ‘reading fit’ now, the start of the school term will be much smoother! If the new school year brings a change in book level for your child—whether they move up or down—we have plenty of guidance on our book bands and reading advice pages. But remember, the most important thing is that your child is enjoying their reading!