Another summer is winding down, as signaled by the start of the school year. While some kids may outwardly grumble about it, deep down inside, they probably are looking forward to the daily socialization with friends again…and yes, maybe their teachers too!
If you are looking for a few pointers about getting back in the school groove, PBS.org is a good resource. Whether you’re new to this with a Kindergarten student, or a seasoned veteran with middle-schoolers, there are tips dealing with topics from reluctant students to setting up an effective homework space at home.
Common Sense Media is another helpful website for parents with school-aged children. This article recommends apps to enhance math and reading skills. The website is also useful for family friendly reviews of books, videos, movies, apps, and more.
It’s important that kids continue to read for enjoyment, not just assignments. Follow these tips from the Scholastic.com blog:
- “Never fear! We have some helpful “back to school reading resolutions” to ensure families read every day at home once school begins.
- Ask your kid’s new teacher at back-to-school night for a list of books to read for fun at home, as kids say their teacher is a top resource for book ideas.
- Keep books in the home for independent reading time all year. Frequent readers have twice the amount of books in the home in comparison to infrequent readers.
- Read aloud at home – and keep it going beyond ages 5 and 8, as 66% of kids ages 6–11 say that “reading together is fun” and 72% of kids say “it is a special time together.”
- Talk to your local public librarian or school librarian for book suggestions. They are a year-round resource for great book ideas for families.
- Look for children’s books that feature characters that are “smart, brave or strong” and who “face a challenge and overcome it.” Kids need to connect with stories and characters in order for them to associate reading as an enjoyable activity.
And don’t forget to let children choose their books to read for fun. 9 in 10 kids say their favorite book is the one they picked out themselves.”
Here are a few books to help get over those back-to-school jitters or to give you a good laugh!
Back to School, Mallory by Laurie Friedman J FRI
Back to School is Cool by Jim Jinkins ER JIN
The Gingerbread Man Loose in the School by J MUR
The School is Alive! by Jack Chabert J CHA
School Days According to Humphrey by Betty G. Birney J BIR
Middle School: Get Me Out of Here! by James Patterson J PAT
On the Scholastic.com list above, number 4 is why we are here: “Talk to your local public librarian or school librarian for book suggestions. They are a year-round resource for great book ideas for families.” We love helping you find books to read or listen to for the simple joy of reading. Be sure to visit us throughout the school year to help with your assignments or to find something you might just enjoy! Have a good school year; we’ll be here waiting to see you!