Saturday, August 7, 2010

Any Book is a Great Summer Read for Kids

Reading over the summer break is one of the best things a child can do to prevent the dreaded "summer slide" in reading skills. But what types of books are best? Recent studies have shown that reading ANY type of book is better than not reading at all. Researchers at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville have just completed a study on the summer reading slide and have found that giving children access to books and letting them choose the books that most interested them did a lot to close the summer reading gap.

One of the most interesting findings was that reading scores improved even though children were not choosing those books found in the curriculum or on summer reading lists. Kids take joy in reading and talking about those things that are close to their hearts. What your child would choose to read is maybe not what you would choose for them, but it is opening the door to the wide, wide world of reading.

Missoula Public Library has a wide assortment of reading, listening and viewing materials for kids and teens. Why not come on down and let your kids pick out some of their favorites and enjoy a day together reading.

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