It is called summer reading loss or summer setback. Research has shown that students lose about three months of their reading gains if they don't read over the summer. According to Anne McGill-Franzen and Richard Allington, professors at the University of Florida in Gainesville, if children don't read over the summer, that number can add up to a considerable loss by the time the child leaves elementary school.
Impacts of Summer Reading Loss
Nearly all children suffer from summer reading loss if they don't read over the summer. However, reading loss is worse for children from low-income families. In a study conducted in 2003, McGIll-Franzen and Allington noted the biggest reason is a lack of books to read. Economically, it's difficult for these families to purchase the most recent popular releases or even the classics. Public libraries are always an option, but a lack of transportation makes visits very difficult. In addition, when families are able to make it to the library, fines can add up if they can't return the books on time. And that's money they need for other purposes.
Benefits of Summer Reading
All students benefit from summer reading. By completing as few as six books during the three month break, students can maintain their current level. If they read 10 to 20 books, they not only maintain, but in some cases, improve their skills. The key, however, is for students to read about topics of their own interest and not be forced to read other books and complete comprehension tasks. Reading needs to be fun.
Getting Books into Kids' Hands for Summer
School libraries have the largest concentration of grade level reading material. Unfortunately, students don't have access to the schools during the summer. So, where do students go for books? Some inexpensive places to find books are thrift stores and yard sales. Books can be picked up for about 50 cents each. The only drawback is the selection may be limited.
For those wanting to help, consider donating your own child's books to a community center. Many centers are popular during the summer because they offer activities for neighborhood children. Make sure to check with the center first before showing up with a box of books.
While summer is a time for rest from the daily grind of homework, it should not be void of reading. By getting books into the hands of children, summer reading loss can be avoided and students can enter school in the fall ready to pick up where they left off.
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