As summer holidays unfold, educators are encouraging families to prioritise reading to prevent the “summer slide”—a decline in literacy and numeracy skills that can occur during extended school breaks.
Jade Arnold, a literacy consultant with the New South Wales Department of Education, highlighted the importance of maintaining academic progress through regular reading. She noted that reading during the summer is a straightforward and effective way to stop students from losing the gains they’ve made during the school year.
The summer slide, particularly common among primary school students, is a well-known phenomenon. Arnold, who also serves as the Premier’s programs officer reading and spelling, pointed out that summer reading offers benefits beyond academics, providing children with opportunities to explore new books and genres that they enjoy.
Making reading a tradition
Parents are encouraged to make reading part of their holiday activities, whether it’s lounging on the beach, relaxing by the pool, or winding down at home. Shared reading experiences not only strengthen literacy skills but also foster a love of books.
“Wherever your holiday time takes you, set aside time to read together,” Arnold said. She also reminded parents of the resources available through local libraries, which offer free access to audiobooks, eBooks, and tailored recommendations from librarians.
“If you’re heading off on a road trip these holidays, try listening to an audiobook together as a family,” she added.
Premier’s Reading Challenge
The Premier’s Reading Challenge, open to all NSW students from kindergarten to year 10, inspires children to explore a diverse range of literature. Books read during the summer holidays can be added to students’ online reading records when the challenge reopens on 24 February 2025.
Arnold shared reading recommendations from the Challenge’s lists, with standout titles for different age groups:
For preschoolers starting kindergarten:
- Starting School by Jane Godwin & Anna Walker
- The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! by Mo Willems
For ages 5–8:
- Wombat Stew by Marcia K. Vaughan & Pamela Lofts
- The School of Monsters series by Sally Rippin & Chris Kennett
For ages 9–12:
- The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
- Wandi by Favel Parrett
For teenagers (Years 7–10):
- The Road to Winter by Mark Smith (boys)
- Friday Barnes: Girl Detective by R.A. Spratt (girls)