Extension Extras
By Darice Sheiss CFS Progarm Assistant

Keegan, my first child, went to kindergarten this year. With much thanks to Sue Floyd and Noah's Ark Daycare, his transition has been extremely smooth. Now, if I can just get Eric, my husband, to get over the fact that his baby is off to school and we are inevitably getting older.

As the newness of the school year starts to fade and we begin settling into our new routines, it is possible to forget the importance of why we are sending them off each day to school - to get a good

I read some disturbing statistics from the Indiana Youth Institute recently. Only 30 percent of Indiana fourth graders and 28 percent of our eighth graders are at or above the proficient level in reading. Reading scores among Hoosier students have stagnated for years, and students with below average basic reading skills have increased, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics, 2006.

So what are the folks here in Carroll County going to do about this problem? Following are a few tips offered to parents and those who work with youth to help encourage reading.

Parents' vocabulary shapes the child's vocabulary. Parents' reading habits serve as models for their toddlers. Make reading a part of your toddler's daily routine. Recite nursery rhymes and sing songs. Ask questions as you read, such as "What will happen next?"

For pre-k through first grade, read daily to your child. Take your children to the public library and help them obtain their own library cards. Re-read books and pause during your reading to allow your child to finish sentences. Keep markers, crayon, pens and paper on hand and encourage kids to make their own books.

For second and third graders, have children read recipes, then measure and stir ingredients. Have older children read to younger siblings. Play games that involve reading. Ask children write a grocery list.

For fourth and fifth graders, read aloud to them even if they can read alone. Link films and television shows to books. Let them stay up later if they are reading.

For sixth through eighth graders, set aside family reading time. Recommend books you enjoyed when you were their age. Encourage children to read aloud to others. Give reading-related gifts.

For ninth through twelfth grades, set an example and let your kids see you reading for pleasure. Build on your teen's interests. Look for books and articles that feature their interests. Share books, articles, or other things you have read recently that they might enjoy.

Have a terrific school year and keep reading. Reading is the key to academic success and future employment opportunities.

Source, Indiana Youth Institute