Did You Know?… Adding a good summer reading list keeps children’s minds active over the summer and aids in lessening anxiety when returning back to school. As reading skills are developed during the summer, confidence is built for the upcoming school year. When children are asked to read aloud in front of their peers, they will feel comfortable with doing so. Higher self-esteem levels result in excellent mental health, providing motivation and desire to succeed in the classroom.
Summer reading is also vital in maintaining mental functionality and stamina, because it exercises the brain and strengthens the memory bank. According to the authors of a report from the National Summer Learning Association, “A conservative estimate of lost instructional time is approximately two months or roughly 22 percent of the school year…. It’s common for teachers to spend at least a month re-teaching material that students have forgotten over the summer. That month of re-teaching eliminates a month that could have been spent on teaching new information and skills” (rif.org).
As the memory bank becomes stronger, information that enters the brain starts to become easier to retain and comprehend for children. The ultimate result is that children will be able to achieve higher test scores on assessment tests, as well as earn higher grades in English and reading classes.
It Doesn’t Stop There…
Summer reading combined with physical activity adds to children’s overall health. It provides good physical health for children when parents are active in changing up their scenery during reading time. Parents can walk with their children to local playgrounds and beaches, as well as public libraries to enjoy reading together. Author, Jannie Pilgrim was inspired to start the “Prince Garrett” series when she began walking with her son, Garrett and telling him creative stories about a prince and his companion Zeus, the dog. “Watching the manifestation of a story come to life from a child’s perspective, is magical,” says Pilgrim. On walks, Pilgrim would point out life’s miracles – the caterpillar that would soon morph into a butterfly. These walks not only created educational value and exercise, it provided bonding and a deep appreciation for nature. “Regular physical activity can help sharpen thinking, learning, and judgment skills. It can also reduce risk of depression and may help improve sleep.” (cdc.gov).
Add Value to Your Child’s Summer Reading List…
- Pilgrim’s latest book, “How the Moth Turned into a Butterfly,” is the fourth book in the “Prince Garrett” series. It is impactful because it entails easy-to-comprehend language and intriguing climaxes that persuades children to read. Fun and adventure combined with these elements strives to raise reading levels.
- The series will expand children’s vocabulary and pronunciation, ultimately strengthening verbal and written communication skills. As a result, they will become more confident when communicating with peers, as well as adults.
Summer readers can purchase a copy of their very own book from the “Prince Garrett” Series at www.amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com! Visit princegarrett.com for more information on the series.
About the Author
Jannie Pilgrim is the founder of The Deal, LLC, a career consulting firm that provides transformative coaching to aid individuals in their pursuit of personal and career goals.
Jannie holds a Master’s of Science in Human Resources and a postgraduate degree in Training and Development from the Milano Graduate School of The New School University. Jannie has over 15 years of experience in Human Resources, project management, talent acquisition and training development for Fortune 500 companies.
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