Not every child is a natural bookworm, and even those that are might inadvertently not read as much once summer arrives and school’s out. Why is summer reading important? Because the loss of reading skills over summer is real. But don’t worry, you can help your child be school-ready for fall by encouraging consistent and independent reading while they’re on break. There are several ways to do so.
Create a reading list ahead of time. Use websites to find current best-selling and new release books, or age-appropriate book lists – Goodreads is a fantastic resource for both. Ask your local librarian for help, other parents, or email your child’s teacher for additional quality suggestions. Middle schoolers can even curate their own list themselves.
Don’t limit reading to one type. Mix it up. Graphic novels, comics, and digital books might suit your reader better. Or, browse the magazine rack at the library. You’ll find excellent magazines for kids such as those from Owlkids, Highlights, and National Geographic.
Choose book topics wisely. Find a subject your child finds irresistible and they won’t be able to stop reading about it. Keep in mind books aren’t limited to fiction; non-fiction books about arts and crafts, cooking, animals, sports, and gaming are all popular topics kids enjoy, too.
Be prepared. If there are certain books you know your child will like or your reading list is ready, check waitlists at the library. Put books on hold now.
Set goals. Agree to a minimal time dedicated to daily reading. An elementary student should read for 15 to 20 minutes on average every day, while a middle schooler should aim for 20 to 30 minutes.
Adopt a reading challenge. The Calgary Public Library is a great place to start. They offer the Ultimate Summer Challenge. Pick up a Challenge map from your local branch – as an added bonus, readers can even win prizes.
Use a summer reading bingo card. Look online for free printable cards or make your own! For example, one space could require 30 minutes of reading in order to be crossed off, while another could be to read outside under a tree. If your reader completes one line, go out for ice cream; a blackout could mean a new book of their choice.
Print fun reading logs or charts. These come in all sorts of enticing, unique styles for all ages.
Make weekly trips to the library. Regularly selecting new books is not only fun but also helps combat reading boredom and burnout. It’s essential to keep young minds stimulated with new content. It also gets everyone out of the house, especially on a rainy day!
Join or create a book club. If you can’t find one to join, make one! What kid doesn’t want to create their own club? A summer book club with friends might instill just the right reading motivation.
Visit a secondhand bookshop. Visit one of Calgary’s secondhand bookstores and see if you can discover any treasures at a discount.
Read aloud. If someone is a reluctant reader, joining them may be just what they need. Choose your characters and take turns. Be dramatic and silly. Your reader might also be more interested in reading to someone than on their own – an audience could include the family pet or younger siblings.
Write stories. The instructions are simple: use imagination to pen a short story, or to create a picture or comic book. If your child writes, they’re also reading. Plus, they’ll be delighted to present their own story to you.
Make bookmarks. A personalized and creative bookmark to use makes reading more fun!
If a child refuses to read a physical book? Switch formats. Try reading apps, digital platforms like Epic, and literacy games.
Remember: Reading is meant to be fun, not stressful. Keep things light and playful, and reading time will be something your kids look forward to rather than avoid. Reading is a life skill. As Dr. Seuss said, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go."
Born in the prairies, Stephanie is a mother, cancer-survivor, cat lover, and avid traveler. Stephanie is also the creator of the family travel blog Next Family Getaway, nextfamilygetaway.com, where she shares trip ideas and travel advice for those traveling with kids.
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