Can you think of a summer activity that doesn’t require a mask or a vaccine to participate and can be done anywhere?
Reading.
The Summer Reading Program kicks off June 7 and runs through July 31 at the Hinsdale Public Library, which is reopening its in-person services just in time for the annual event. The library also has scheduled several programs to promote leaning in to literacy, with more information available at https://www.hinsdalelibrary.info. Check out a few of the offerings:
• Teens can use an online log available on the library’s website to track the reading they do over the summer and get rewarded.
• Adults are invited to expand their worldview through books and film this summer. Pick up an entry card at the library to join, or print out the online version. Each card returned counts as one entry for the $100 Fuller House gift card grand prize. If the total number of cards received reaches 50, the Friends of Hinsdale Public Library will donate $200 to HCS Family Services. A list of suggested authors and films in the library’s collection is available on the library’s website.
• Kids are challenged to keep track of the time they spend reading to earn some great prizes! Pick up a reading log at the library or get started online.
There are also several special activities over the next couple weeks to inspire young ones on their reading journey (space is limited and registration is required):
• “In a Jar” storytime and activity will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 8, at Burns Field, 320 N. Vine St.
• Park Storytime, featuring stories, finger plays and music, will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursdays, June 10, 17 and 24, at Burns Field. The program is designed for ages 2-5.
• Farmers Market Storytime with Christie Cuthbert will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, June 14, on the Memorial Building lawn. No registration required.
• The Picture Book Club will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, June 17.
To help kids meet their reading challenges, here are few tips for parents, courtesy of https://www.pbs.com.
• Set aside a consistent time each day for reading — morning, afternoon or before bed. Stick to the schedule as much as possible.
• Read aloud to your reader, even as he or she gets older. Hearing a parent read more difficult books aloud helps a child learn new vocabulary words, concepts and ways of telling stories or presenting information.
• Selections should include both required reading (if applicable) and books that interest your child, such as those about insects or dragons or a favorite fiction series. Children are much more likely to finish a book they picked out themselves.
• Books that have been made into movies allow children to experience two versions of a story and can stimulate good discussions.
• Take books along on outings, such as picnics or trips to the beach, to show that books can be enjoyed anywhere.
