June 2011

Dear First Grade Parents,

          Even though it is June my thoughts are moving toward September.  To help your child adjust to the rigors of second grade please continue to encourage them to read and write over the summer. Make reading and writing part of your daily routine.  To assist you with this endeavor please remember to work on your Summer Bridge Activities.

          You will find a Summer Reading Log by clicking here.  It is my hope that you make every effort to read daily with your child.  Your task over the summer is to record the books that you have read. Over the years many parents have asked me how they could help their child be a better reader.  There is no secret magic recipe.  The old adage “practice makes perfect” is a big part of the solution.  Some other hints to help them along; choose books that are slightly challenging (no more than 4 mistakes on a page), look for clues in pictures, skip words that are difficult and read the rest of the sentence for meaning, break up the words into chunks, and above all, praise and encourage their reading regardless of the level they are on.  This must be a daily effort for forward movement and improvement in reading.

          Please be sure to check out the necessary supplies for the 2nd grade.  I wish you all a safe, relaxing summer and look forward to seeing you in September.

                                                                             Sincerely,