Summer vacation is in full gear, and the last thing on many kids' minds is reading. Days are filled with fun, and getting your child to sit down and read may be a task you would rather not tackle.

But, for the reluctant reader, there are some strategies.

"Don't present it as reading," said Mary Anne Heltsche-Steinhauer of the Lancaster Public Library.

"If it looks fun, and not like reading, you might be surprised at your child's enthusiasm," Heltsche-Steinhauer said.

By incorporating little "lessons" throughout the day, your child can get some reading time and not even realize it.

During your child's school vacation, it is important for him to spend time reading and writing on a regular basis — whether he is a very beginning reader or a fluent reader. Luckily, summer's more flexible schedule and wide array of activities lend themselves to reading, and teaching, opportunities. Try some of these suggestions for making your school-aged child's summer full of literacy fun.

Include your child in everyday activities that require reading, suggests www.pbs.org.

Have him help read the directions to that grill you are putting together or, if he wants to see a movie, have him read the review of that movie in the newspaper.

"By making it so it's not a task or a chore to read, the child is more open to the idea of doing it," Heltsche-Steinhauer said.

Set an example by being a reader and writer yourself. When you spend time reading books for pleasure, you demonstrate for your child that reading is a fun choice.

Ruth Sate of Lancaster helps her 12-year-old daughter with reading, and has encouraged her daughter and friends to read the same book. The impromptu group takes time to read together and discuss the books they are reading.

"It's kind of a book club for kids," Sate said. "If they share the experience, they are more likely to enjoy it."

Sate also recommended setting aside a designated time each day for reading. Depending on your family's schedule, reading time might be in the morning, afternoon or before bed. Whatever time you choose, stick to it, but also remember that flexibility around trips and special family events is OK, she said. Select a fun spot to read with your child, Sate suggested. Go outside with a blanket or hang a hammock.

If you have a younger child, read aloud to her. Parents often stop reading aloud to school-age students after their child learns how to read independently. However, by reading more difficult books with these children, you help them learn new vocabulary words, concepts and ways of telling stories or presenting information, Heltsche-Steinhauer said.

Allow your child to choose her own books for summer reading, and select ones that are of interest to her, Heltsche-Steinhauer said.

While it is important for your child to complete reading required by his school, it is equally important for him to read about topics that interest him, whether it is insects, dragons or a favorite fiction series.

Help your child select books at a comfortable level, said Renee Christiansen, youth director for the Lancaster Public Library.

"If it's something they will struggle with, they will not enjoy it," Christiansen said.

If you are having troubling judging, consult your local children's librarian. He or she will know how to locate the books for your child, Christiansen said.

The library's website, www.lancaster.lib.pa.us, is also useful for reading suggestions, reading resources and online reading opportunities.

Summer reading programs at local libraries run through August and can be a great way to get a child interested in reading, Christiansen said.

In addition, teach your child to use the "Rule of Thumb" in selecting books: If he makes five or more errors in reading a page of about 50 words, the book is too challenging, according to www.pbs.org.

Your child doesn't have to limit summer reading to books. Encourage your child to read the sports page to check up on her favorite baseball team, or to read children's magazines such as Ranger Rick, National Geographic World and New Moon.

If a book has a movie adaptation, read the book then watch the video together. When you finish reading and viewing, discuss the similarities and differences and talk about which version you prefer. Many books, including "Stone Fox," "Sarah, Plain and Tall" and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" are available in movie versions.

Take books along on outings. Pack books in your beach bag or picnic basket, and bring a stack on long car rides. You and your child can enjoy books together anywhere you go this summer.

Encourage your child to write this summer, too. From writing postcards to friends and relatives to keeping a journal while on a trip, summer presents unique ways for your child to write about his own experiences.

cesbenshade@lnpnews.com