Read! Read! Read!

I have heard many kids say they hate to read. It is not surprising.  Reading is such a huge part of elementary education.  Students read textbooks for science, social studies, language arts, and much more.  Students tend to approach all reading the same way. Reading for information is a different skill than for pleasure. Reading for pleasure is just that - a pleasure.  Students will become better readers with practice, just like a musician playing an instrument.  Reading should never be perceived as a chore, a dull requirement.  It should be viewed as something more.  It is a window that left closed will never allow us to see beyond the glass.  Too many kids end up with windows closed, painted shut, never to open again when they become old enough to "not have to read anymore". Encourage them to open a window, get some fresh air. Try a new view, a new genre. Try a new author, a new setting. Try sitting in a new spot with a good book.  Don't give up. Even people who hate to read can pick up a book and find a new joy in the adventure.