Summer Reading Program Enables Kids to Keep Track of Books

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Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I—Pulaski) has launched the 2008 Summer Reading Challenge, a chance for kids of all ages to keep track of time spent reading during July and August. More than 5,000 Summer Reading Brochures have been circulated to schools and libraries within the 124th Assembly District.

“Summertime is a perfect opportunity to encourage leisure reading. The Summer Reading Challenge puts the responsibility on the kids to read for 15 minutes a day. They can mark up their own calendar in the form and keep track of the time they spend, which makes it more fun for the kids,” said Barclay. “I know my two boys are anxious to mark off the days on their Summer Reading calendar come July 1.”

The 2008 Summer Reading Challenge entitled Catch the Bug states “We pledge to read together for at least 15 minutes each day during the months of July and August.” Beneath this pledge is a calendar where kids can keep track of their summer accomplishment. The summer reading brochure also features a suggested reading list, which is broken up into different categories that includes adventure, humor, friendship, fantasy, history and sports. It also lists books that preschoolers and early readers will enjoy.

At the end of August, students are encouraged to send their brochures back to the Assembly office to obtain a New York State Assembly Excellence in Reading Certificate.

“Studies have shown that children who continue to read during the summer perform better in school in the fall,” said Barclay. “This challenge makes it fun for the kids and hopefully, they form the habit of reading regularly at an early age,” added Barclay.

To obtain a form, contact the district office at 315-598-5185 or e-mail your name and address to [email protected] . Residents may also mail in a request for a brochure to 200 N. Second St., Fulton, N.Y. 13069.

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