Reading Skills for Today's Adults

We are all members of many communities. We are part of a neighborhood, town, and school. Children, teenagers, adults, and seniors—all of us have a part in bettering our communities. Good citizens make great communities! Here are some ways to become a better citizen:

Obey laws/Follow rules – Every community has laws and rules. Drivers must stop at red traffic lights. People must pay their bills on time. Landlords must keep sidewalks shoveled. Children must raise their hand before speaking in class. Rules and laws are important. Think of what would happen if communities did not have them!

Get involved – Know what’s happening in your community. Read about current events in the local newspaper. Learn about people, places, and things in your area. 

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Ask your children what’s going on in their schools. Attend community events and school activities. Be an active part of your community!

Vote – Voting is an important part of citizenship. Read about candidates for office in your local newspaper. Know who you are voting for and what their ideas are. Write a letter to a local or state politician. Let him or her know about your ideas, opinions, and concerns.

Reach out – Find ways to help others. Give food to a food shelf. Help coach a kids’ soccer team. Visit with a lonely neighbor. Make a meal for a family who is going through difficult times. Ask your family members if they can think of ways to help others. Teenagers could do chores for an elderly neighbor. Children could help clean up trash in the neighborhood.