Carthage Reading Expert Promotes Benefits of Summertime Reading

Aug. 4, 2019 9:45p

(WGTD)---An expert on developing kids’ reading skills says there’s no better time to make big gains than in the heat of summer.

Jackie Easley is an Associate Professor of Education at Carthage College and also serves as Dean for the Division of Professional Studies.

Easley championed the cause on a recent edition of WGTD’s Morning Show. 

"The summer is perfect because they're home. They're getting tired. They're overheated. There's been a lot of activity," she said.

That's a great time to encourage children to take a break by grabbing a book and a snack and finding a cozy place to begin reading, Easley said. "That includes the caregivers in our home so that they (the kids) see this is something that we all do. It develops that habit." 

Tricks of the trade include always being on the look-out for teaching moments. For example, a trip to the grocery store could be preceded by including a child in coming up with a list. Once at the store, there are plenty of signs to read.

Easley also says parents and caregivers should not overlook non-fiction, special interest books that could capture a child’s attention.

Click here for the full Morning Show program. 

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