Make a Splash! Make a Difference!

The Summer Reading Program, Make a Splash! Read! is in full swing for all kids from birth to age 12. If you haven't registered yet, it's not too late to head to your local library and sign up. If you think Summer Reading is all prizes and games and puppets, think again!

According to the New Mexico State Library, "students who participate in summer reading programs score higher on reading tests than those who do not participate". This is especially important in New Mexico because in the Nation’s Report Card, "NM 4th graders scored lower than students in 43 other states on national standardized tests in 2009. Only 52% performed at or above the test’s Basic level." The 2009 Kids Count Data Book and the New Mexico Coalition for Literacy have more statistics and facts that illustrate how important reading is in childhood in creating literate adults.

The Summer Reading Program is a fun and free way to ensure that kids are learning to read and learning to love reading. So don't let the summer fun fool you. In the midst of the parties and magic shows, there's a whole lot of learning and literacy going on. Pick up a book today!

Thanks to LW @SS for the links.