Assemblyman William Colton reminds children and families that the Assembly’s 2008 Summer Reading Challenge is just around the corner and that his office will again distribute the assembly’s brochures to schools and parents. Colton, a former NYC school teacher, knows full well the value of reading, especially during summer vacation.
This is the tenth year that Colton has brought this educational tool to the district schools and parents, stating, “Summer is a great time to read books. Whether you’re at home, enjoying the outdoors, or traveling to friends or family, reading opens your imagination and gives you the opportunity to learn new things.”
The New York State Assembly encourages children and parents to make reading a habit through its annual Summer Reading Challenge Program. To receive a New York State Assembly Excellence in Reading Certificate, children must read with a parent for 15 minutes a day, for at least 40 days throughout July and August.
We live in a world where there is so much technology around us that it is easy to forget about the importance of reading. Giving an example, the Gravesend/Bensonhurst legislator asks: “Have you ever been at a checkout counter, when the cash register went on the fritz, and the sales clerk couldn’t do simple arithmetic to give you the correct change? Well, that’s the danger of relying solely on computers and neglecting the basics.”
Studies show that children who read at home are better prepared to succeed in formal education. This program gives kids a chance to get away from their digital music and video games, television and computers and engage in an activity that improves spelling, vocabulary, pronunciation and reading skills. It’s a great opportunity for family and friends to spend quality time together,” said Colton.
This year’s budget made a historic investment in New York’s education, to help ensure students succeed in our evolving, global economy. The Summer Reading Challenge is part of the assembly’s commitment to providing a quality education to the youth of New York State, said Colton, who added that “reading is a fun and beneficial pastime and a crucial tool for our children’s education. Nurturing a child’s love for reading begins at home. We ask parents and children to participate in the Summer Reading Challenge and help foster a generation of life long readers.”
Libraries not only provide reading material for free, but also a pleasant, cool atmosphere to read in, and even offer recommendations of good books to read. What better way to prepare the kids for rainy day weather than with an arsenal of good books to improve their minds.
For more, call Assemblyman Colton’s Community Office, 155 Kings Highway, at 718-236-1598 and ask to speak with Nino.
