Guest Commentary: Make the most of summer
Creating memories, building readers, preparing for a great year ahead
Summer break is here — a time when families get to slow down, unplug from the daily school routine, and enjoy time together. For many, summer is a welcome opportunity to sleep in, head to the beach or pool, take family trips, and enjoy a more relaxed schedule. It’s a season of memories in the making — and a perfect time to stay connected to your child’s learning in fun and meaningful ways.
While summer should be filled with rest and play, it’s also an excellent opportunity to keep your child’s mind active, especially when it comes to reading. Studies show that even just 15-20 minutes of reading a day can help prevent the “summer slide” and keep students on track for the next school year. Best of all, it doesn’t have to feel like schoolwork!
Here are a few easy and enjoyable ways to make reading part of your summer routine:
Visit your local Library
Make library trips a weekly adventure! Let your child choose books that match their interests — from mysteries and adventures to animals or graphic novels. The Lee County Libraries are offering a Summer Reading Program and book challenges that give kids fun goals and prizes for reading. Additionally, many venues provide story times, craft days, and even guest performances — all at no cost to the public. Learn more at https://www.leegov.com/library/summer-reading-program.
Read Together
For younger children, especially, reading aloud together can be a special bonding time. Whether it’s a bedtime story or a quiet afternoon read on the couch, your child benefits every time you open a book. Older kids may enjoy reading the same book as you and chatting about it together.
Enjoy the Unstructured Time
While it’s great to keep up reading habits, summer isn’t just about academics — it’s also about family, fun, and rest. Without the pressure of early alarms, homework, and after-school activities, families can slow down and enjoy the little things: a day at the beach, picnics in the park, evening walks, game nights, or spontaneous day trips.
This is the perfect season to reconnect with your children, try new things, and build lasting memories — without a packed calendar. These moments matter just as much as academics and help our students return to school feeling refreshed, confident, and ready to learn.
As we enjoy these summer days, we’re already looking forward to welcoming students back in August. A new school year means new opportunities, new friendships, and new goals to reach — and the best way to prepare is by keeping young minds curious and engaged.
So take a deep breath, soak in the sunshine, and make the most of every moment. With a bit of reading, a lot of love, and the freedom to explore, this summer can be one to remember.
Have a safe, joyful, and meaningful break!
Vanessa Chiavano is the Lee County School Board Member for District 7, one of two at-large seats that represents residents countywide.