Return-Path: <nifl-family@literacy.nifl.gov> Received: from literacy (localhost [127.0.0.1]) by literacy.nifl.gov (8.10.2/8.10.2) with SMTP id hBIMlxm08694; Thu, 18 Dec 2003 17:47:59 -0500 (EST) Date: Thu, 18 Dec 2003 17:47:59 -0500 (EST) Message-Id: <000901c3c5b9$aa5d51d0$1a01a8c0@cccchs.org> Errors-To: listowner@literacy.nifl.gov Reply-To: nifl-family@literacy.nifl.gov Originator: nifl-family@literacy.nifl.gov Sender: nifl-family@literacy.nifl.gov Precedence: bulk From: "Sylvan Rainwater" <sylvan@cccchs.org> To: Multiple recipients of list <nifl-family@literacy.nifl.gov> Subject: [NIFL-FAMILY:1736] Summer programs X-Listprocessor-Version: 6.0c -- ListProcessor by Anastasios Kotsikonas Content-Transfer-Encoding: 8bit X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook, Build 10.0.4510 Content-Type: text/plain; Status: O Content-Length: 2419 Lines: 56 Here's the summary compiled by Oregon State coordinators in their April 2003 meeting. I'm interested in experiences by other programs, either with these possibilities or others -- what do you think works best? What are obstacles? How do you overcome shortages in money and personnel? Summer services provided by programs included: • an 8 week class that runs the same as the academic year but with no home visits • a modified schedule, with 2, 3-1/2 hour days per week for 5 weeks • providing families with a list of local events, particularly those that are inexpensive and family-oriented, and in some cases requesting that they write about their experiences • corresponding by mail: letters, postcards • providing families with packets/bags (buckets, backpacks) with parent/child activities, either sent home at the end of the year or given at summer home visits • home visits • gathering at local parks, libraries, events, etc. • collaborating with the local summer reading program • using lessons on the television (or videos) like Crossroads Café. Challenges programs have encountered: • budget cuts that take away from the program; challenge is to find the funding to cover the cost • very few staff working through the summer; or juggling staff vacation requests so there's adequate coverage for the program • attendance is sporadic: some families need to work during the summer, or outside agencies (DHS) require clients to work to supplement • providing adequate follow-up to families use of activity kits, journal exercises, etc. • older children needing care. Characteristics of a successful summer program included: • regular group contact for families so that the group stays united and the camaraderie stays intact • timely (and worthwhile) feedback, i.e. gas voucher for turning in journal topics • field trips that engage the whole family • connecting families to community resources, events • more "hands-on" activities for use at home or on outings • flexible: continue in a way that's reasonable for families • connected to or works around summer school or local activities (parks & rec camp) for older children • covers special topics of interest to the students, i.e. driver's ed. • FUN! ------- Sylvan Rainwater mailto:sylvan@cccchs.org Program Manager Family Literacy Clackamas Co. Children's Commission / Head Start Oregon City, OR USA
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