Issue 1
Welcome to the first edition of the St Gregory’s ‘Readers for Life’ digital magazine! We hope you enjoy discovering the latest reading updates, book talk from school and top tips for developing a life-long reader at home...
Mr Wilson
An introduction from our School Patron of Reading...
Hello and welcome to Eat, Sleep, Read, Repeat!
If there’s one thing I’ve done more of during Lockdown, it’s reading. Actually, that’s not true - I’ve written more than ever, a poem a day. But - I have read more than usual. I’ve had the time. And I’ve read a wider variety of books and magazines - again, because I’ve had the time.
I can’t overstate how important reading is. It’s not what you read that’s really important, it’s that you read that is really important. Sometimes you will read for escape and enjoyment, sometimes you’ll read for information or news, sometimes it’s a joke or a cartoon strip or graphic nove or sometimes to find out what the football score is or what’s on the tellyl. Sometimes you’ll read alone - maybe mostly - but sometimes you’ll read something that want to share with someone else - a great line, a funny joke, a short poem …
Do so! Read and share - everyone feels better that way. Make it a priority.
Happy reading
Paul
Patron of Reading
After being unveiled to a resounding success, the Chorley School book bench trail has been re-launched to encourage local children to navigate around the town centre and discover the beautiful work created by local pupils. This forms part of the ‘What’s Your Story Chorley?’ initiative and is a fun activity for all the family!
These brightly coloured benches are designed and decorated by eleven schools in Chorley, working in partnership with Edge Hill University, each with a design based on a popular children’s book, encouraging children to explore the story while decorating their bench.
Eat Your Veggies!
Are you magic or a muggle?
As children grow into their reading, one of the collection of books they are often keen to immerse themselves in is J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter. This set is not only accompanied by its movie series but also let’s avid readers dive into a more detailed plot.
Top Tips for Supporting Your Child’s Reading at Home
Lots of parents worry about their child’s reading. When you hear the playground chat about how well another child is doing with their reading, it’s easy to feel that your child might be getting left behind.
However, it’s important to remember that reading isn’t a race. Being a good reader might be the finishing line, but children get there in many different ways and at different speeds.
The importance of supporting your child's reading cannot be overestimated. Thankfully, there are lots of fun and easy ways of doing this.
Be a role model
One of the most important things you can do is to read yourself. When we surveyed children about their reading role models, parents were top of their list. If your child sees you reading, they will copy your behaviour, even from a very young age. It also provides great opportunities to discuss as a family what you are all reading and what you enjoy.
Encourage them
Like the rest of us, children love praise. Be sure to encourage their efforts. Treating reading as a reward in itself, rather than a task to be completed, will also help give your child positive views of reading. Reading for pleasure, above all other factors, has the most influence on a child's attainment. Therefore, make sure your child is reading things they enjoy - if they like dinosaurs then find books and other literature on dinosaurs!
Don't forget your library!
Your local library is a goldmine - make sure you use it. It will give your child a chance to explore titles for themselves, and take part in any fun reading events. Ask the librarian for advice too - they are experts in literature and only too happy to offer advice and guidance.
Technology is not the enemy
eBooks and other technologies can enhance and enrich a child's reading experience. Reading in all its forms is beneficial to children, whether that's through traditional print books, e-books, other digital devices, comics, magazines or even menus and road signs when they're out and about.
Make it fun
Don't be afraid to really engage with books - do voices for younger (and sometimes older!) children, act out scenes, visit places where characters might have lived. Reading at home should be an enjoyable activity for both you and your child and can provide some lovely bonding opportunities.
Go online
Take a look at the National Literacy Trust's website for parents www.wordsforlife.org.uk. This site is full of free resources for parents, lists of milestones for different age groups, as well as competitions and book give-aways.
Shh... I’m reading!
When reading at home it’s important to have that ‘special place’ where you can escape the world that you’re in and dive into another...
With this in mind, we are highlighting examples and ideas for creating your own reading hideaway at home.
