Week Four From the English Department

Lots of parents share with us that they struggle to get their kids to read at home. It isn’t something we do as often as we used to as a society. I have 3 suggestions this week to encourage some reading at home.

Literacy Tip: Reluctant Reader?

“Research shows that the benefits of reading for pleasure are extensive and long-reaching. Reading for pleasure: boosts academic achievement, and provides a foundation for critical, digital and information literacy.” - National Library of NZ.

Lots of parents share with us that they struggle to get their kids to read at home. It isn’t something we do as often as we used to as a society. I have 3 suggestions this week to encourage some reading at home.

  1. Model it - sit down with a book yourself… do it regularly and maybe they might join you. Ms Beaumont has been encouraging her 6 year old to join her in the evenings by making cups of (decaf) tea and a biscuit, saying in her best British accent; “Shall we have a cuppa tea and a biscuit and read our book?” which makes it just a little bit more fun. 
  2. If they used to love reading but lost the joy somewhere along the way, why not ask them to find something they used to enjoy reading and see if they’d reread it and remember the joy. Maybe it’ll reignite the interest? 
  3. Download the library app - Libby or Borrowbox - sign in with your Clutha District library card and download FREE audiobooks. Listening to a story can be a great way to relax in the evening, and encourages engagement with books! 

Ms Beaumont - HOD English

What we’re reading: Mr Townsend has been getting back into Terry Pratchett and is currently on Witches Abroad. Terry Pratchett always comes up when staff are asked “Whatcha reading?”, so it must be good!

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