Making special memories and creating a lasting bond are some of things I want to accomplish with my children. One of the great ways to do both of these is to read together.
There are so many benefits to reading together, even if its only a few books over the summer. First, you must consider the educational benefit. Children can lose some of what they learned during the school year if they don't practice their reading over the summer. By reading together you help them to continue to improve in their reading ability.
Second, it gives them the opportunity to enjoy recreational reading. Without a prescribed subject, a looming book report, or a time limit they can learn to read just for the pure pleasure of it.
Lastly, it can be something fun to do together. Pick a book all your kids would enjoy and read it together. It can give you something in common to talk about. You can use silly voices as you read it. You can pick a book that involves something you are going to do or a place you are going to see. There is something so special about curling up together with your kids on the couch and reading a book together.
You can always revisit the classics like Charlotte's Web
,Little House on the Prairie, or The Hardy Boys. Here are some other great picks for this summer.
These books by Mary Ann Hoberman are around a 1st or 2nd grade reading level. They are fun books that are meant for an adult and child to read together. They are a fun way to practice reading and something you will want to read again and again.
Matt Christopher is a great author of many fictional sports books. He has written over 100 books. Most of his books are about $4.99 and are eligable for the 4 for 3 offer on amazon.com. This is a great pick for 9-12 year old boy. If you have a boy who doesn't like reading but loves sports then he will really enjoy any book by Matt Christopher.
is a great author of many fictional sports books. He has written over 100 books. Most of his books are about $4.99 and are eligable for the 4 for 3 offer on amazon.com. This is a great pick for 9-12 year old boy. If you have a boy who doesn't like reading but loves sports then he will really enjoy any book by Matt Christopher. 
The My America series is a collection of historical fiction books written by different authors. They are written as a diary from the perspective of a child living during that time in history. These books of full of adventure and will help your child better understand and remember that time in history. This series is great for any child from 9-12 years old since there are books with both girl and boy main characters. These books are also eligible for the 4 for 3 promotion and free super saver shipping.
Whether your kids are younger and you will read to them or they are older and they will read to you, I encourage you to take some time during the summer to read together as a family. You will make some great memories together.
