8 Fun Ways to Get Your Kids Reading this Summer

Summer is upon us and that means our kids are all finding ways to make us crazy stay busy: whether it’s swimming, playing outside, or riding bikes we are trying to get them outside and playing. One other thing they may be doing less of is reading. Many kids read less during the summer just by nature of school being out and normal routines not being in place. That doesn’t mean that we don’t want to be sure that we are carving out some time each day (or at least every other day) where we make sure our kids are sitting down and reading: something- anything! Keeping up with some summer reading is a simple but important way to give your kids a leg up for the next school year. Kids, especially emerging readers, can be in danger of slipping back (often referred to as the summer slide) and losing content they have already learned. Some kids are naturally voracious readers and don’t even have to ask them, but others need some help and motivation. I’ve gathered up 8 fun ideas for getting your reading this summer so hopefully they’ll be more reading and less fighting for everyone.

1. Join a summer reading program at your local library

This is an easy and free one. Almost all libraries have summer reading programs with prizes and contests built into it. It’s an easy one with almost no work for Mom or Dad- except for driving them there!

2. 100 Book Challenge

Have your kids try and read 100 books this summer for a fun prize at the end- or print out this adorable one that has 100 places and situations for them read in! It’s simple and fun.

3. Have a Contest

Create a contest, either kid vs. kid or kid vs. Mom and Dad with a goal of reading a certain number of books, pages or minutes over the summer (or for younger kids who need more immediate motivation: over the week). Winner gets to choose a fun activity, a special dessert, or picks what’s for dinner that night! Here’s a great and simple one to use to get started.

4. Play Reading Bingo

Create a bingo card with places, types of books, or activities that your kids can check off- once they get a “Bingo” they get a prize. Create your own or print this fun one out here.

5. Create a Reading Calendar

Make a calendar for summer (June, July, August) with a different job for each day. Have your kids help you make one up or change the year and print this one out here!

6. Pass Out Some Coupons

Set mini goals and pass out special coupons once your child meets one: maybe a trip to the park, the ice cream shop, or the book store to choose a new book! Just remember to pick prizes that you’ll stick with, so they are motivated to read more. Here are some cute ones that your kids will love!

7. Make a Family Goal

Set a goal for the whole family (books, pages, minutes) and a BIG prize at the end, like a trip to the waterpark, to reward the whole family for a job well done!

8. Create a Reading Scavenger Hunt

Make a series of clues or activities that get your kids up and reading. I love this one here, it’s so cute and simple for any aged kid!

So, what are your favorite ways to get your kids reading all summer long?