Summer is a time for exploration, creativity, and new experiences—and what better way to embark on an adventure than through books? Whether kids are relaxing by the pool, curled up in a hammock, or on a road trip, reading keeps their minds engaged and their imaginations soaring. Plus, with so many summer reading programs offering exciting rewards, kids can stay motivated while having fun!
Why Summer Reading Is Important
The "summer slide" is real—when kids take a break from reading, they can lose some of the skills they gained during the school year. But reading regularly over the summer helps them stay sharp, build confidence, and expand their vocabulary. Plus, it fosters creativity and strengthens comprehension skills, making the transition back to school much smoother.
Exciting Summer Reading Programs for Kids
Here are some fantastic programs that make reading fun and rewarding:
National & Retail Programs
Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program – Kids in grades 1–6 can earn a free book by reading eight books and completing a Summer Reading Journal. Once finished, they can bring their journal to a Barnes & Noble store between July 1 and August 31 to select a free book from a curated list. Find a Barnes & Noble near you.
Scholastic Summer Reading – Scholastic offers a digital reading challenge where kids track their reading streaks, attend virtual author events, and unlock digital rewards. Plus, Scholastic donates 100,000 books to children in rural areas based on participation.
Books-A-Million Summer Reading Adventure – Kids can earn a free Dog Man backpack by reading four books from the Books-A-Million Summer Reading Adventure list and writing about them in a logbook.
Half Price Books Summer Reading Camp – Running from June 1 to July 31, kids can earn $5 Bookworm Bucks by reading 300 minutes and logging their progress. The program also includes printable reading lists, activities, and coloring sheets. Find a Half Price Books near you.
Pizza Hut’s Book It! Summer Program – Using the BOOK IT! app, parents set monthly reading goals for their kids. When kids meet their goal, they earn a free Personal Pan Pizza from Pizza Hut.
Library & Educational Programs
Your Local Public Library – Many libraries offer reading challenges with prizes, events, and book giveaways. Some even provide Beanstack tracking, where kids log their reading minutes to earn rewards. Find a library near you.
Reading Is Fundamental Summer Reading Camp – RIF provides free book lists, activities, and reading challenges to prevent the "summer slide." Families can sign up for the Summer Reading Challenge, and the first 250 participants receive a free book.
Sonlight Summer Reading Challenge – Sonlight offers a printable Summer Reading Kit with activities like reading bingo, book brackets, and genre punch cards. Participants receive a free Sonlight Book Light and a chance to win a $50 coupon.
Department of Defense Summer Reading Program – Available for military families, this program includes themed activities and incentives to encourage summer reading.
Make Reading Even More Fun!
Want to make summer reading even more exciting? Try these ideas:
Create a Reading Fort – Build a cozy reading nook with pillows, blankets, and fairy lights.
Start a Family Book Club – Read the same book together and discuss it over snacks.
Set Up a Reading Treasure Hunt – Hide books around the house with clues leading to the next one.
Read Aloud in Fun Voices – Bring characters to life with silly voices and dramatic expressions.
Track Progress with a Sticker Chart – Let kids add stickers for every book they finish.
Read Your Friends' Favorite Books! – Go through your My Friends and I friendship book, find prompt #15: 'My Favorite Book', and check out the books your friends love. Pick five of their favorites to read this summer! The next time you see them, let them know you've read their favorite book and exchange more recommendations—it’s a great way to discover new favorites together! Don't have a My Friends and I friendship book yet? Get a copy here or on Amazon.
Build a Personal Library! – If your child dreams of creating their own book collection, check out local bookstores in and around Austin to start their very own library filled with stories they love!
Summer reading is all about exploration, imagination, and fun. With so many programs to choose from, kids can stay engaged, earn rewards, and develop a lifelong love of books. So grab a book, find a comfy spot, and let the adventures begin!