Assistant Principal
Sharon Lomas
Assistant Principal
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We hope this newsletter finds you well on book week and at the start of our yearly reading challenge. These events celebrate fostering a love for reading for all children at Kingswood Primary School. Reading is an essential skill that forms the bedrock of academic success and enriches the lives of individuals throughout their lifetime.
As your child's primary educators, you play a pivotal role in nurturing their reading abilities and we are delighted to provide you with valuable tips and strategies to support their reading journey at home.
1. Create a Reading-Friendly Environment: Set up a cozy and inviting reading corner at home. Fill it with age-appropriate books, magazines and other reading materials that cater to your child's interests. Ensure good lighting and minimal distractions to encourage them to explore the world of books.
2. Read Aloud Together: Reading aloud with your child is an excellent way to bond and develop their love for stories. Choose engaging books with colorful illustrations and exciting plots. As you read, ask questions, and discuss the story to enhance comprehension and critical thinking skills.
3. Establish a Reading Routine: Consistency is key! Designate a regular time for reading each day. Whether it's before bedtime or during breakfast, having a consistent reading routine helps create a habit and instills discipline.
4. Let Your Child Choose: Give your child the freedom to choose the books they want to read. Whether it's a picture book, a graphic novel, or an adventure story, allowing them to select their reading material increases their motivation and enjoyment.
5. Be a Reading Role Model: Children learn by example. Demonstrate your love for reading by letting them see you read books, newspapers, or magazines. When they witness your enthusiasm, they are more likely to embrace reading themselves.
6. Encourage Reading Beyond Books: Reading doesn't have to be limited to traditional books. Encourage your child to read recipes while cooking together, explore road signs during a walk, or decipher the instructions for a board game. Everyday activities can be opportunities for reading practice.
7. Celebrate Progress: Celebrate every reading milestone your child achieves. Whether it's finishing a challenging book or improving their reading speed, praise their efforts and provide positive reinforcement.
8. Utilize Technology Wisely: Incorporate educational apps and websites that promote reading skills. There are many interactive tools available that can make the learning process enjoyable for your child.
9. Join a Library or Book Club: Enroll your child in a local library or book club where they can discover new books and meet other young readers. This fosters a sense of community and excitement about reading.
10. Be Patient and Supportive: Remember that every child learns at their own pace. Be patient, supportive and understanding of any challenges they might face. Celebrate progress, no matter how small and encourage a growth mindset towards reading.
By actively engaging in these practices at home, you lay the foundation for your child's academic success and instill a lifelong love for reading. Reading is not just a skill; it is a gateway to imagination, knowledge and empathy. Together, let's cultivate a generation of curious and passionate readers!
Happy reading!