Super-Fun Spring Break Reading

Make Reading a Part of Your Family&s Spring Break.

By Amy Mascott
Apr 01, 2013

Ages

3-10

Super-Fun Spring Break Reading

Apr 01, 2013

Spring Break is around the corner for many of us, and whether your family is relaxing at the beach, hiking in the mountains, or spending time on the home front, Spring Break can -- and should -- be a time for reading. And fun reading at that!

Inviting children to help with Spring Break travel planning is an often-overlooked opportunity for reading. Together, research and read about where you plan to go, having your child help with decision-making when it comes to restaurants, activities, and travel ideas.

While traveling, opportunities for reading are abundant. Street signs, maps, menus, travel guides, and brochures offer tons of reading material for families with readers of every level. Pick these up whenever possible because they not only make great souvenirs but they can help your child with post-travel writing!

Don’t fret if you’re not going anywhere this Spring Break (neither are we!); reading can be made fun even on your “Staycation.” Often we neglect the spots in our own hometown that other people travel miles to see. Take a day to visit the places of interest near you -- even if you’ve driven by them a thousand times. Give yourself time to read the fliers and historic information in and around the building, and talk to the tour guide or docent. Encourage your family to listen and ask questions.

No matter where you spend your few weeks off this spring, a key to really making the most of the time away is to prepare. Gather books, websites, and information about where you are going and read them together before you load up the mini-van or board the plane. You’re “activating schema” for your child, or helping to prepare them for what they’ll learn on the road. When he or she sees in person something that was read about prior to the trip, it will make the experience that much more exciting and memorable.

Happy (and safe!) springtime travels!

What is your favorite way of making reading fun while traveling? Share your thoughts on the Scholastic Parents Facebook page, or find Amy on twitter, @teachmama, and let’s continue the conversation!

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