Summer is a good time to read

Summer is a chance for children to enjoy their break from school, go outside, run around, and have fun.

It’s also important that we teach our children that reading can be an enjoyable way to spend their time during these warmer months.

Every year, the New York State Senate sponsors a Summer Reading Program. I have been taking part in this important program to keep children engaged with reading and learning.

Over the years, I have heard from many of my constituents who tell me their children look forward to this program each summer. That is encouraging. Many children love to read if given the opportunity, and I am proud to help provide that motivation.

This year’s theme is “Unearth A Story.” Those wishing to take part in this year’s program can do so by visiting https://www.nysenate.gov/nyread.

Parents and guardians then enter their child’s name and information, along with the titles of the books they have read, on the online form. Families with homeschooled students should enter the school district in which they reside on the form.

Once the log is submitted at the end of the program, each participant will receive a special certificate congratulating them on their achievement after the program closes on Aug. 21.

This Summer Reading Program also is a perfect opportunity to keep children familiar with their neighborhood libraries.

Our public libraries are an outstanding source of reading materials and offer important educational programs, computers and other resources that can help expand a child’s learning experience.

I encourage our children to visit their libraries whenever they can. To find your local library, visit https://nysl.nysed.gov/find-your-public-library.

Reading can be a fun and fulfilling way to spend the summer season and help to better prepare for school in the fall. I hope children throughout my district will participate in this year’s program.

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