Leaders of Learning
From the Instructional Specialist and K-2 and 3-6 Leaders of Learning
Make This Holiday Season a Chapter of Reading Adventures
The Spring holidays are here—a perfect time for children to relax, connect with family and friends, enjoy the outdoors (or get cozy inside!), and take a well-deserved break from the school routine. But it's also a fantastic opportunity to keep the spark of learning alive in fun, relaxed ways.
Why Reading Matters More Than Ever
Recent research has highlighted a concerning trend: families are reading less at home. We know life gets busy, and digital distractions are everywhere, but the benefits of reading aloud with your child are profound and lasting. Just 10-15 minutes of shared reading each night can make a world of difference!
Reading together boosts fluency, expands vocabulary, and strengthens comprehension. It helps children connect sounds to letters, nurtures a love for stories, builds empathy, and deepens the emotional bond between parent and child. Children who are read to regularly are more likely to become confident, independent readers and achieve success in school. While schools lay the foundation, parents are a child's first and most influential reading role models. In fact, 83% of children model their reading habits on their parents! Creating a home filled with books, stories, and conversations can ignite a lifelong love of reading.
Join Our Holiday Reading Challenge
To make reading even more exciting this break, we're launching our popular Holiday Reading Challenge for both K–2 and Years 3–6! Students who complete the challenge will be entered into a draw to win a special prize. It’s a wonderful way to keep those literacy skills sharp while having fun!
Reading is More Than Just Books
Remember, reading doesn't have to be limited to traditional books. Listening to audiobooks, sharing stories aloud, exploring e-books, or flicking through comics and magazines all contribute to vital literacy skills. Every moment spent with words makes a difference!
Ideas for Fun-Filled Holiday Reading:
- Visit Your Local Library: The Sutherland Shire boasts nine incredible libraries with fantastic holiday programs. It’s the perfect time to borrow new books, explore the "Story Box Library," or check out the Spring activities on offer. Don't forget to visit the brand new library at Kirrawee’s South Village!
- Utilise School Resources:
- K–6 students: Log in to Decodable Readers Australia for excellent skill practice.
- Years 3–6 students: Access the SORA online library, which they've used in ICT lessons. (Please find the attached link for login help.)
- Make Reading a Family Affair: Share stories as a family, or simply set aside a regular time each day to read quietly alongside your child.
- Create a Reading Corner: Design a comfy, quiet nook at home where your child can get lost in a good book without distractions.
Premier's Reading Challenge: If your child is participating, the holidays are an ideal time to tick off a few more books!
Learning truly is a partnership between home and school, and your support this holiday season is invaluable.
Wishing you all a warm, restful Spring break filled with joy, family time, and plenty of wonderful stories! Happy reading!
Miss Matilda Raper
Instructional Specialist
Mrs Alison Poole
Kindergarten - Year 2 Leader of Learning
Mrs Lucy Chigioni
Years 3-6 Leader of Learning