Evanston Public Library's 2015 Summer Reading Program, "Read to the Rhythm," will run from June 1 through July 31.

Summer reading programs play an important role in student success. Studies have shown that reading over the summer prevents the loss of reading skills while school is not in session. By the end of 6th grade, children who lose reading skills over the summer can be up to two years behind their classmates.

Summer Reading participants of any age can earn points to win prizes for completing a variety of activities like reading a book, coming to a library event, checking out an audiobook, connecting with the Library on social media, doing a science activity, or writing a story.  A Summer Reading Activity log helps individuals keep track of points. Prizes will include books, gift certificates to local eateries, and more. 

This year's Summer Reading Program brings free events and programs to the Library to entertain and further life-long learning. Enjoy a Chinese Dragon Boat Festival Storytime in English and Mandarin. Come to Family Nights. From STEM MakerKids and a poetic rockin' puppet show to a world folk music concert and camp song sing-along, from a community drum circle to "Act Out" teen performance workshops, "Read to the Rhythm" encourages Evanston residents to read books, explore music, create art, and enjoy the Library's many free resources.

A complete list of activities can be found at epl.org.

Kohl Children's Museum was specifically designed to be inclusive of all children and adults regardless of ability. The Museum's 17 exhibits and 2 acres of outdoor explorations are designed for play with a purpose and encourage linguistic, cognitive, motor, and social skills for children ages birth through 8. The Museum works collaboratively with community organizations to invite families with children with special needs to the Museum to explore the exhibits while closed to the general public. These events, titled Everyone at Play, usually occur on specified Sunday mornings. This provides opportunities for calm, creative, and collaborative play. 

Offered by Kait Feriante, certified Wilson tutor and learning behavior specialist at Wee Speech.

60-90 minute sessions, 2-3 times a week, $80 per session

When: June 29th - August 28th, flexible scheduling Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Location: Wee Speech 8833 Gross Point Rd., Skokie

Read flyer for more information HERE

Is Driver's Ed Behind the Wheel on your schedule this summer?  Are you wondering if your teen with ADHD can possibly be a safe driver?  Check out this article for some ideas.

By Rae Jacobson

Learning to drive is a huge, exciting step. Car keys mean freedom, responsibility, and a new kind of independence. But for some kids the symptoms of ADHD -- inattention, distractibility, and poor judgment -- can cause serious problems behind the wheel.

Research shows that kids with ADHD are more likely to get speeding tickets and moving violations, to be involved in accidents, and have their licenses revoked. How can parents help kids with ADHD build the tools they need stay safe on the road?

To read helpful strategies, click HERE

From Parenting Special Needs Magazine

"We've put together a list of seven special accessible vacation spots for families whose children have special needs. With these resources, you'll be able to plan your getaway and get ready to travel. There are many fun family vacation options waiting for you and your family. Enjoy planning your getaway."

Click HERE

From ChildMind Institute

By Rae Jacobson

"For many kids, summer vacation holds the promise of months of school-free fun. But for children with sensory processing issues, summer can be a challenging time.

From the sand on the beach to the fireworks on the Fourth of July, the season is full of exciting but potentially difficult experiences. An unfamiliar playground, a visit to an amusement park, a messy ice cream cone: all involve sensory surprises that can be overwhelming or upsetting if a child is unusually sensitive to light, noise, and tactile sensations. But with some preparation and planning parents can help kids with sensory issues get the most out of summertime."

To read the whole article, click HERE

When one child in a family has problems that consume a lot of attention, restrict family activities, or generate a lot of concern, other kids in the family may react very differently. 

Dr. Emanuele clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute writes, "Some start acting out and finding ways to get attention that might be negative. Some become big helpers and try to fix the problem for their parents. Some try to be extra good and avoid getting in the way. Some get angry.""Some kids take care of themselves and persuade themselves that they don't need attention."

To read more, click HERE 

Join our new private Facebook group

Evanston CASE Parent Connections

Share resources, ask questions and express your concerns with others who "get it".

This online group supplements our in-person Parent Connections support group meetings. We have found that it is difficult for people to get to a meeting and we hope that this forum will be more accessible when you need it.

You may be asked to provide some basic identifying information (we will keep it confidential) to ensure that only parents/family members of children/teens in Evanston are accessing the group. Membership is growing quickly. Join the conversation.

Contact us at mail@evanstoncase.org to sign up to join the conversation.