5 Ways to Encourage Summer Reading
I am not a reader but I am definitely trying to raise readers. It is an area that I am constantly growing in. This summer I am pulling out all the stops to keep reading strong throughout the summer. I have found several reading programs and printables that I share below. Hoping this will encourage me to read more too.
1. Take Advantage of Your local library
I fall into the trap of feeling like I need to buy new books all the time. There are lots of programs that send you monthly books , like this one on amazon. Those are great, but the library has so much to offer. We have an amazing library here in Frisco. One of my favorite things is that you can request books right on the app and then pick them up at the window and it makes it super easy to find the books you are looking for.
I stock our homeschool room shelves each season throughout the year with books from the library. Add a weekly library trip into your summer routine. Make sure to visit a story time. Start when your kids are young.
2. Summer Reading programs
There are lots of free reading programs available to you to encourage reading for your kids (and you). Your local library most likely has one. Frisco library had the Mayor’s Summer Reading Program. It runs from May 17th – August 11th. You sign up online and track your reading minutes. Once you reach certain levels you go into your library and receive your prizes.
I signed up for the summer reading program through the Good and the Beautiful. I received the summer program and a book for several dollars.
Barnes + Noble has a summer reading program that begins in July. You read 8 books and write about your favorite part in their provided journal and then your child will receive a free book off of their list.
3. Summer printables
Everyday reading on Instagram has an adorable printable to encourage summer reading. Here are several different themes to choose from. There are little book challenges and a way to track all the books that you have read. I printed it at Staples for just a few dollars.
The Aloha Hut has a cute sticker printable with a chart to read 100 books.
Our Lovely Life talks about her approach to encourage reading in her home. She has an adorable printable also.
4. Reading incentives
Your reading incentives can be anything you want. You can have little rewards throughout the summer, working towards one big goal.
- baking cookies
- new lego set
- getting ice cream
- making a new bookmark together
- visiting the aquarium
- going to work with dad
- staying up late
- a new book
- family bowling night
5. Create space to read
Make reading fun. Take your kids outside with a few snacks and read to your kids. Let your kids stay up 20 minutes late to read to your kids. Bring books in the car. Institute quiet time in the afternoon and encourage them to read. Have reading time in your daily routine. Read about our summer schedule here.
Happy Reading!