When kids enter elementary school, their brains are just ready to learn how to read. Some kids seem to get it right off the bat, but others need more practice. But how can we help our children when they seem reluctant to practice their skills? As it turns out, reading and literacy can be a part of your family’s daily life in more ways than you might think.
This Saturday, bring your emerging reader, aged five to eight, to the Central Library at 2 p.m. to meet Laura McGee Kvasnosky, author of the early reader series Zelda and Ivy. In addition to hearing Laura read a story, families will be shown how to write a story themselves—a family story. Motivation is a huge part of reading, and what better motivation than getting to be the star of the story?
Sharing family stories is also a great way to start a conversation. Having fun discussions as a family contributes to reading skills because children learn how to express themselves, hear new vocabulary, and learn how to follow a conversation.
As we move into the autumn season it’s the perfect time to cozy up with some apple cider and tell stories as a family. Try playing Fortunately/Unfortunately. One person starts out with a story: “Once upon a time there was a young pirate girl.” Then everyone keeps taking a turn telling one sentence of the story by alternating “fortunately” and “unfortunately.” For example:
“Fortunately, she had her own ship ready to set sail.”
“Unfortunately, she did not have a crew.”
“Fortunately, a man with a peg leg appeared…”
The stories can go on for as long as you like.
If you’re looking for more ideas, parenting blogs are a wealth of easy and fun activities. Check out these four fantastic ideas from the blog Simple Kids. Whatever you choose to try, it should be easy and fun for your family. Learning happens best when everyone is having a good time.
Speaking of a good time, we hope to see you this Saturday at the Central Library at 2pm, or at one of our other upcoming programs for emerging readers:
- Pacific Science Center Super Cool Science Show on October 20 at 2 p.m. (Central Library)
- Comics Count! Creating Graphic Novels on October 27 at 2 p.m. (Central Library)
- Build a Bob Book with Lynn Kertell on November 3 at 2 p.m. (Central Library; details posted soon!)
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