Welcome Back To School

Read, Write, and Reach for the Stars!

Why is reading aloud the number one suggestion from reading experts? 

It fosters the desire to read!  Here are some tips to make the most of the read aloud experience*:

• Get cozy
  Find a comfortable place to snuggle up with a good book.

• No distractions
  Keep your reading spot quiet so your child can focus on the story.

• Invitation to join in
  Your child can recite/read key phrases or help turn the pages.

• Talk
  Chat with your child about the plot or their favorite part.

Looking for a good book?  Here are a few favorites:

	Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle, by Betty Macdonald (chapter book) Everyone will chuckle…When children are unruly, Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle has “interesting” suggestions for parents.  You’ll more than giggle at her solution for messy bedrooms.
	The Stranger, by Chris VanAllsburg   A stranger bumps into Farmer Bailey’s pick-up truck?  Who is he?  Kids will have a great debate….does he represent a season?  If so…which one?
	Miss Nelson is Missing, by Harry G. Allard A delightful mystery about a missing teacher and a grumpy substitute.  This book provides lots of opportunities for talking about school.

Got a few minutes?  Play the Dictionary Game*

• Write down a new vocabulary word.
• Write down 2 phony definitions as well as the correct definition.
• Read the three choices.
• Can your child guess the correct definition?
• Finally, look up the word in the dictionary to verify the meaning. 

*Ideas taken from 2007 Resources for Educators Reading Connection sample