Take a Break, Find a Book and Reconnect with Reading This Summer
By Ms King
The summer holiday offers a precious opportunity to slow down, catch your breath, and take stock before we begin afresh in September with renewed energy and enthusiasm for the new school year. But how easy is that really?
In an era of endless choice and constant digital distraction, it can sometimes feel impossible to step back and take time to relax. Yet pausing for a while is essential for both children and adults. When we allow ourselves moments of stillness, the benefits to our wellbeing, productivity, creativity, and capacity for adventure become clear.
For each of us, slowing down will look different. In fact, it may feel a little uncomfortable at first. We are so used to being constantly stimulated by notifications, screens, and busy schedules that being still can seem unfamiliar.
Yet if we watch young children, we see something remarkable. They don't need constant entertainment. They are often content to observe, explore, and delight in the world around them. They let the world come to them, and their curiosity remains alive and vibrant.
Finding your own moments of stillness can be incredibly rewarding. Perhaps it is sitting quietly in the garden, stretching out on the sofa, or taking the dog for a walk. Maybe your mind begins to wander, imagining possibilities or exploring new ideas. Perhaps a question sparks your curiosity and you cannot wait to learn more.
When we create space for stillness, we free our minds to think, wonder, and see the world differently. It is often in these moments that reading becomes particularly powerful. Books allow us to connect with other people, places, experiences, and perspectives in a way few other things can.
Why not be part of our Summer Reading Challenge ?
This summer, we're challenging every family in our school community to put reading at the heart of each day - for just 20 minutes. Let's swap a little screen time for story time, discover new ideas together, and return in September with minds full of adventures, knowledge, and inspiration.
1. Create a Family Reading Pledge
As a family, aim to read for 20 minutes a day this summer.
2. Launch a "Snap Your Read" Challenge
I would love return in September to a full inbox of photos where you reading in unusual locations:
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On holiday
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In the garden
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At the beach
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In a blanket fort
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With a pet
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At the park
The best photos will feature in the first newsletter of the new school year!
3. Create a Summer Reading Bingo Card
☐ Read outside
☐ Visit a library
☐ Read with a family member
☐ Try a non-fiction book
☐ Read something that makes you laugh
☐ Read before breakfast
☐ Recommend a book to a friend
☐ Listen to an audiobook
Can you tick all the boxes?!
4. Book Swap
Leave a book in a local café, waiting room, holiday accommodation, or Little Free Library for someone else to discover.
5. Recommend a Book
What was your family's favourite summer read? Send me a title, a short review, or even a photo. We'll share some of the recommendations in September.
Send your recommendations and photos to Ms King, eki@thegreggschools.org . I’m really looking forward to reading them in September!
