Parent Briefs (Summer 2006)

Get the "Summer Reading Buzz"
Every month this summer, Scholastic's reading experts will offer advice and interactive activities, including an online reading log. Every book you add to your log feeds the reader meter, and Scholastic will match each book with a donation to K.I.D.S. (Kids in Distressed Situations, Inc.).

For more information, go to: http://www.scholastic.com/summerreading/

Creating Home Learning Environments
This article has good ideas on how to take familiar areas in your home and create similar miniature learning environments for your child.

For more information, click here.

Everyday Learning
You can help your preschooler become a reader and writer through simple conversations and by reading together. Here are some ideas on how to turn everyday experiences into opportunities for learning.

For more information, go to:   http://www.pbs.org/parents/readinglanguage/preschooler/main.html

Colorín Colorado Gets a New Look
ColorinColorado.org provides educators and Spanish-speaking parents with literacy information for English language learners. They have recently redesigned their homepage, making it easier for you to find the great resources available, including information, activities, and advice in both Spanish and English.

For more information, go to:  http://www.colorincolorado.org/

Parent Tip Sheets
Looking for ways to keep English language learners motivated over the summer? These one–page parent tip sheets from Reading Rockets are now available for you to download in PDF form in nine languages, including Arabic, Traditional Chinese, English, Haitian Creole, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese. They offer some fun ways in which you can help your child become a happy and confident reader.

For more information, go to:  http://www.readingrockets.org/article/7833

Susan Hall on Parental Involvement with Young Readers
In this series from SchwabLearning.org, expert Susan Hall answers important questions about parental involvement with young readers.

For more information, go to: http://www.schwablearning.org/articles.asp?r=875

Play with Dr. Seuss
Dr. Seuss's timeless rhymes and colorful characters come to life in fun, online interactive games. Included are printable games and activities that can help reinforce early literacy and other early learning skills.

For more information, go to:  http://www.seussville.com/university/