Summer shouldnít mean taking a break from learning, especially reading.  Studies show that most students experience a loss of reading skills over the summer months, but children who continue to read actually gain sills.  Efforts should be made during the summer to help your child sustain reading skills, practice reading and read for enjoyment.  Parents remember that children need free time in the summer to relax and enjoy the pleasures of childhood.  So summer reading should be fun.  Follow a few of these tips to make reading enjoyable for your children this summer.

Read aloud together with your child every day.  Make it fun by reading outdoors on the front steps, at the beach or park. Also, let your child read to you.

Let children choose what they want to read.  Buy books on tape, especially for a child with a learning disability.  Listen to them in the car and turn off TV when listening it at home.  Take your child to the library regularly.

Reading Activities
TelephonitisóGive your child practice in reading numbers left to right by dialing a telephone.  Make a list of telephone numbers your child can readófor relatives, friendsóand have your child make a call or two.

Dress MeóIncrease your childís vocabulary.  Teach the name of each item of clothing your child wears when dressing or undressing.  Also teach the body parts.  Then print the words on paper and ask your child to attach them to clothes in the closet or drawers.

And Thatís the End of the StoryóImprove listening skills and imagination.  Read a story aloud to your child and stop before the end.  Ask the child how the story will turn out.  Then finish the story and discuss the ending with the child.  Did it turn out the way you thought? 

Do enjoy your summer vacation and I look forward to meeting you and your child in August 2004 for a very fruitful school year.

Supply List

Prepare for 2004-2005 school year.  We are planning on having a very exciting and rewarding school year.  This however, can only be accomplished with your full support and cooperation.  Enclosed is a list of materials and supplies your child will need to get off to a good start!

3 first primary penmanship notebooks (8 writing lines) 
#2 sharpened pencils 
box of crayons 
glue sticks  (NO WET GLUE )
These items will need to be replaced throughout school year. 

A pair of scissors 
2 black and white notebooks
2 standard (letter) size pocket folders
1 pack of Xerox paper
plastic pencil case
durable school bag
1 box of tissue and baby wipes
1     raincoat   (NO UMBRELLAS)
1 waterjug
2 sets of Physical Education uniforms/Sneakers
   *Boys must wear long pants everyday including Gym days.
   *Girls must wear skirts everyday including Gym days.

Please label ALL of your childís belongings!  We look forward to working with you and your child this coming school year.
 

First Grade Teachers