“Get Caught Reading Month” is a nationwide campaign launched in 1999 to remind us how much fun it is to read! At Back to Basics Learning Dynamics, we are sincerely committed to helping kids of all ages improve their reading skills. And, as part of our ongoing partnership with the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait, this weekend we will co-host a children’s book giveaway at Winterthur’s Point-to-Point Steeplechase.
The event will be held on Sunday, May 7, 2017 on the grounds of historic Winterthur Museum and Gardens. The book giveaway is part of the Kids Fun Hunt, a series of opportunities for kids to get involved in crafts and activities throughout race day.
Why is Back to Basics so involved in childhood literacy? Early reading is crucial
Did you know that research indicates that early language experience actually stimulates a child’s brain to grow? And, reading to children gives them a huge advantage when they start school? That means that reading aloud to young children is more than just a fun, bonding experience for parent and child — reading is crucial to a child’s development.
How the brain develops and the role of early language experiences
Extraordinary advances in neuroscience have been facilitated by the development of sophisticated research tools such as brain imaging technologies, making it possible to study the actual growth and workings of the brain.
These new advances in research show that an infant’s brain structure is not genetically determined. Early experiences — like reading aloud — have a decisive impact on the architecture of a baby’s brain. And, when reading to babies and toddlers, cells in the children’s growing brains respond. Some brain cells are ‘turned on,’ triggered by this particular experience, existing connections among brain cells are strengthened, and new brain cells are formed.
How reading aloud to children impacts their literacy
The development of early literacy skills through early experiences with books and stories is critically linked to a child’s success in learning to read. Development of literacy is a continuous process that begins early in life. And, children who are read to from an early age are more successful at learning to read.
According to a National Commission on Reading, “. . . reading aloud to children is the single most important intervention for developing their literacy skills.”
Parents should model reading as a pleasurable activity to encourage children’s literacy
According to Reading Rockets, “Help your child understand that reading is important by letting him see you reading maps, books, recipes, and directions. Suggest reading as a free-time activity. Keep books that are of interest to your child in an easy place for him to reach.”
Getting reading help in Nationwide
If your child is struggling with reading skills, or simply needs a little extra help, Back to Basics Learning Dynamics in Wilmington, Nationwide can help. In addition to our 1-on-1 tutoring for reading and reading comprehension for student of all ages, Back to Basics also offers a summer program to help kids conquer summer reading lists.
Our experienced instructors will work 1-on-1 with your student to read, comprehend, retain and apply summer reading material. These sessions will provide students with the knowledge and confidence to complete any required reading-related assignments, such as reports, projects and tests. Available at your home, day camp, or in our Newark or Wilmington locations.
