Importance of Summer Reading Programs

Summer is almost here and the Chidren's Department is ready to launch our Dream Big Summer Reading Program.  Summer Reading programs are not only a fantastic way to relax and have fun, but are essential for children's learning skills and continued development, preventing what researchers term Summer Slide.  In our program children set their own goals and are encouraged to read books that interest them.  It is so wonderful to see even the smallest child seek out books on favorite subjects, whether it is Monster Trucks, Cats, Sports Teams or Ancient Egypt.  The New York State Library has this to say on the topic.

The Importance of Successful Reading Experiences

In their studies of children’s reading development, McGill-Franzen and Allington (2003), cite the importance of extensive, successful reading experiences in the development of reading proficiency.  If children have the opportunity to listen to, discuss, and read books on topics that they select, they will develop extensive background information which can serve as a platform from which to engage in their own independent reading.  Additional studies by Guthrie and Anderson (1999), found that “A history of less-successful reading experiences produces a lessened interest in voluntary reading than a history of successful reading experiences.”  According to Cunningham and Stanovich (1998), the key predictors of positive reading development are success when learning to read and numerous opportunities and experiences with reading.  Children who enjoy reading will read more and become proficient at the same time.  A report from the National Institute of Education (1988) concluded that, “…the amount of reading done out of school is consistently related to gains in reading achievement.”

The Impact of Innovative Summer Reading Programs

Public library summer reading programs are one solution to the “summer slide.” In an analysis of summer learning programs by Miller (2007), it was found that children can benefit from “hybrid” programs which combine elements of youth development principles with academic enrichment.  Summer reading programs in libraries exemplify this kind of hybrid program.  Barbara Heyn (1978) found that “More than any other public institution, including the schools, the public library contributed to the intellectual growth of children during the summer.”  Drs. Celano and Neumann  (2001), in a study prepared for the Pennsylvania Library Association, monitored differences between children participating in public library summer reading programs and those involved in local recreational summer programs.  They concluded that, in addition to literacy related activities, children in library programs benefited academically from story hours, arts and crafts, and other special events designed to enhance the reading experience.

http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/summer/research.htm

So join us this summer for a guilt-free and fun way to help your child excel.