Dear Parents,

Tonight we would like for you to take home a "Reading Treasure Box" for your child to decorate.  We thought that it would be easier for you to take it tonight than have each child try to take it home tomorrow.  Please don't forget to take a box and lid---2 pieces.  

This box will be used to store your child's little books that we will be making throughout the year.  Your child may choose to paint his/her box, cover it with contact paper, construction paper, wallpaper, fabric or use his/her imagination to decorate!  Please feel free to assist your child.  Some ideas might be to use sequins, beads, stones, gems, stickers, etc.  The boxes should be completed by ______________________________ and returned to school to share on that day.  Your child will receive a key to the treasure box to be kept with it.  This is meant to remind them that the "key to reading success" is to practice reading every day, at home and at school!  The box will be returned to your child on the same day to take home.

Please note that while daily reading practice with our "little books" at home is critical, it is also important to continue reading nightly bedtime stories to your child as well.  These books will be above their reading level but not above their "listening level."  Most of the children are now old enough to enjoy listening to longer, more complex picture books and simple chapter books.  Interesting books that stir the imagination or tickle the funny bone motivate children to want to learn to read independently. Think of your bedtime read-aloud as an advertisement for reading!

Happy reading!