Why do I need reading?

Hello O. L. Smith Community,

I’m very excited about our short week this week and I know many of you are too! Even though it is a short week, we have a lot to accomplish. Our focus for the week is our “Reader’s Identity.”

What is our reader’s identity? The easiest definition is how we see ourselves as readers. Unfortunately, many students do not see themselves as reader’s and lack a recognizable reader’s identity. Through completing and discussing an “Interests and Reading Survey” as well as a “Reader’s Anticipation Guide,” we are starting to reveal ourselves as readers.

In recognizing ourselves as reader’s, we also will begin to realize the power we can gain through reading and education. These ideas will be carried into our unit after break, “Malala, the Powerful.”

You can help build your child’s reader’s identity at home in many ways. First, help them find literature they enjoy, whatever that may be. Some students will only read if it is a very short text. That’s okay! It’s a start. Next, ask your student what they are reading and show interest. Students are more likely to read when family members and friends show interest. Finally, in order to highlight your interest in reading, let your child “catch” you reading. When they see a book in your hands, they are more likely to pick one up for themselves.

If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas to add about encouraging reader’s identity, I’d love to be in contact with you!

Megan Timpf