No Work, All Play #2

Independent reading can be tough when there are twenty things on your mind. This could be work, how many loads of laundry await us, what we are cooking for dinner, or maybe how far we can get on the next level of SuperMario and which Shopkins we still need to collect.

For some of us independent reading is enjoyable and to others its down-right boring. Regardless, independent reading is a huge stimulant and factor when it comes to creating learning minds for math and all the way to history. That's why encouraging independent reading at home and at school is so important and my next challenge for my friends and their families is to get everyone involved! Yes, you! Join your little one for a little bit of independent reading time because it's not just them who might need a little bit of quiet time...you're welcome!

Independent reading may seem like a simple task: sit down and read. Yet, it's not so simple for our learning friends. It's important to model what successful independent reading looks like vs unsuccessful skimming of their favorite picture book. Ask what they think successful independent reading may mean. Is it sitting in a comfy chair? Laying down in bed? Is it important to have a bright light? Do we ask ourselves questions along the way? Write down and draw what we find successful independent reading to be. Here are some tips for the job:

• Establish a place in the house for independent reading (reading chair, couch, carpet)
• Pick a book that interests you 
• Pick a book on level (not too hard, not too easy)
• Reread when you lose meaning
• Set a timer for the amount of time you wish to read (not under 7 min. but not over 20 min)
• We want to train our bodies to be still and our minds focused for this amount of time. Start at a short amount and ask, "Was this too long for me? Do I want to read more?" Make independent reading a comfortable moment, not forced. 
• Make sure you are modeling what our friend should look like during independent reading. Don't answer the phone, answer other children's questions, have the TV on. You are the model! If you make reading seem interesting, fun, and relaxing, they will follow you.
• Discuss both of your books when the timer is up. Ask comprehension questions like: "What was your favorite character? Why do you think that happened?"

A book I am currently reading you may enjoy is The Energy Bus. This is all about putting positive energy into your relationships, career, and life. Check it out! Books that are great for our friends are Magic Tree House, Pete the Cat, or Junie B. Jones. I ask that if you ever are cleaning out bookcases, are at garage sales, or Half-Price Books please keep us in mind for our Class Library. I would love any donations, no matter how old the books are. 

If you complete this No Work, All Play send a note any day of the week signed with how many minutes you completed of independent reading and their plan for what successful independent reading looks like. 3 Dojo Points will be awarded. 

Thanks and happy reading!