Taking the first step with summer reading

If your child is reluctant to get started with her summer reading, she may struggle with “task initiation”. If the volume of the reading feels overwhelming to her, help her break it down into manageable chunks over the course of several weeks. If she fears she’ll forget what she’s read by the time school starts, teach her how to take notes in the margin and keep character lists. If she feels like she’s missing out on something more fun, pick up your own book and read alongside her. Or, begin reading her book together. Whatever you do to help her get underway, remember that the first step is often the hardest.