Literacy Night

Summer is knocking at my door. School will be out in 2 weeks. As a parent, I always look forward to the change of pace that summer brings. I enjoy the lazy quiet mornings and not having to center life around school times. With the change of pace, I have learned it is still important to have structure and goals for summer, even if that goal is to do very little. I don't mind a little more time on the computer or in front of the TV, but I do mind when the days are completely dominated by TV and computer.
The few months before school is out, I always have a summer "game plan" in writing. Sometimes it is elaborate and complicated with travel, camp and activity schedules. Sometimes it is very low key with a few goals and plans written down and a few dates assigned to those desires.
Too often I spend a great deal of time planning travel and enrolling in camps and not enough time planning what I believe is the most important summer activity for children and parents---READING. Trips to the library, traveling to exciting places within the pages of books.
My goal for summer 2007 is to strike a balance between TV/Computer and Reading. Time spent reading must be in proportion to time spent in Tech-land.
With that goal in mind, I was thrilled with the recent Literacy Night at our Elementary School.
A perfect way to kick off summer!
When the initial Literacy Night invitation came home, I must say, I wondered if it was possible to get children excited about reading in this Fast-paced Tech-deominated world. This was one of the most exciting events I have attended! (Impressing me with any event takes something special!) The children were enthused at every turn! The entire school had been converted into a Pep Rally for Literacy.
Every school, neighborhood, church, and playgroup should kick off summer with a focus on reading.
By way of imagination and incredible costumes, Authors and Characters from every level of Children's Literature visited Literacy Night. They read stories, played games, and presented crafts and snacks.
Two weeks prior to Literacy Night, the students were asked to make posters regarding a favorite book recommendation for summer reading. These creations lined the halls that evening and serve as decorations for the balance of the school year.
The theme, "Make A Splash With Summer Reading" was incorporated throughout. The Media Center and halls were decorated with Beach Gear. Crafts, such as a bookmark shaped like a surfboard were available to decorate.
Each student was challenged to set a summer reading goal (depending on age). When school resumes in August, the Media Specialist has prizes for all those who bring their completed reading lists to her. She has the support of many local businesses in presenting prizes and awards in the way of coupons, gift cards, and items.
In addition to the school reading challenge, Summer reading programs from Barnes and Noble and The Public Library were also introduced.
The evening was concluded by a play presented by teachers and staff.
As a parent, I appreciate this summer kickoff. It keeps me focused and excited for summer reading. An incredible staff of teachers, adminstrators, and parent volunteers created motivation and enthsiasm for a life time of reading.
I would encourage parents, teachers, grandparents, and community leaders to use your influence in your corner of the world to create this tradition of Literacy Night as a Summer Reading kick off.
With a plan, I never dread summer. I welcome this change of pace and the opportunity to dive in to literature!