C.A.P.E.R. stands for ‘Children And Parents Enjoying Reading’.
C.A.P.E.R. is running in the Junior Room for a six week period from 8th April, Monday – Thursday.
Each child will be given a plastic folder and a reading diary. One side of the diary records the name of the book, the day and date received and has a space for the parents to write a comment on that night’s C.A.P.E.R. experience. There is also a space for the teacher to sign to indicate that she has read the comment. The other side of the diary lists some prompts for parents.
The child gets a new book daily. At home, we ask parents to share the book with the child for ten to fifteen minutes and sign the comment sheet. The teacher will also read the book with the child at school every day.
A Step-by-step guide for parents
- You and your child talk about the pictures to predict vocabulary.
- You read the book for the child and allow your child to join in with you if he/she wishes to do so.
- Adjust your reading speed to the reading speed of your child.
- Your child reads the book for you.
- With a problem word, you say the word immediately and your child repeats it.
- 10 – 15 minutes is best.
- Remember to encourage your child.
A few other simple guidelines
- Choose a nice, comfortable place with no interruptions, no television etc.
- This is not homework in the normal sense.
- Keep shared reading separate from homework.
- If your child does not know the word, you should simply say the word without analysing it or breaking it into sounds. The flow of reading should not be interrupted.
- Chat about and enjoy the pictures. Developing your child’s oral language also helps his/her reading.
- Please ensure that your child looks after their plastic folder and record sheet.
- Any helpful comments are appreciated.
- Remember that C.A.P.E.R. is fun, not work!
