The summer brings with it vacations, sun-filled days, camp, and a slew of outdoor activities that children and their families can enjoy. However, this season is also one of the most crucial times for youngsters, who may inadvertently read less. The Kids & Family Reading Report revealed a decline in summer reading as kids age with nearly half of infrequent readers, including 46% of 6-11 year-olds, not reading any books at all over the summer.

As parents and caregivers looking to keep children engaged and combat summer slide—when kids forget what they've learned over the year—is by encouraging reading in fun and creative ways. As parents, you have the unique opportunity to cultivate a lifelong love of reading in your children. So, let's explore why summer reading activities are so essential and delve into three exciting ideas that will make reading not only educational but downright enjoyable!

Why summer reading matters

Summer break is the perfect time to trade the classroom for some exciting adventures in reading. Without their usual textbooks, kids might lose interest in books, which can impact their reading skills. But by introducing fun and engaging activities, you can reignite their love for stories. Reading isn’t just for school; it sparks imagination, builds vocabulary, and strengthens comprehension. Plus, enjoying books together creates wonderful family moments that lead to great conversations and a lasting passion for storytelling!

Create a summer reading bucket list

Turn your child’s summer reading into an adventure by creating a personalized reading bucket list together! Kick off a fun conversation with your child about their favorite reading genres—be it fantasy, comics, travel tales, mysteries, or science. Every child is unique, so let this be an adventure into their preferences!

Once you’ve gathered their top picks, display the list prominently—on the fridge or their bedroom wall. This visual cue serves as motivation and a summer reading goal. Encourage them to set small milestones, such as finishing a certain number of books each week or exploring new genres. Celebrate their achievements! With a personalized reading bucket list, children take charge of their summer journey, nurturing their independence and fostering a love for literature.

Host a family storytime splash

Did you know that reading aloud to children can boost their love for literacy? Yes, and what’s better than combining books with a bit of summer beach or pool fun? Why not combine the joy of water play with reading by hosting a Family Storytime Splash? Choose a day, gather some beach towels, and enjoy reading aloud to each other while relaxing by the pool or at the beach. You could select fun and theme-based books or even take turns reading chapters from longer stories.

Make it even more engaging by allowing your child to act out parts of the stories or draw illustrations of their favorite characters while you read. You could also use props to bring certain scenes to life! For instance, if you're diving into a nautical tale, consider using toy boats or even water guns for an interactive twist. Family Storytime Splash not only enhances reading comprehension but also strengthens family ties and creates cherished memories for the summer.

Book-themed scavenger hunt

Who doesn't love a good scavenger hunt? Combine outdoor adventure with reading fun by organizing a Book-Themed Scavenger Hunt! This activity works well in your backyard, at a local park, or even inside your home. First, select a few of your child's favourite books and create clues based on the plots or characters. For example, if they love "Where the Wild Things Are," the first clue could lead them to a spot in the yard where they can "make mischief" as they search for the next hint.

As your child solves each clue, they'll experience the thrill of discovery while connecting with the stories they've read. You can even reward them at the end of the scavenger hunt with a new book or a small reading-related prize. This exciting activity promotes critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and reinforces their love for storytelling—all while keeping them active and engaged outdoors.

The power of igniting an early passion for reading with fun-filled adventures

Summer is the perfect time for parents to spark their kids’ love for reading through fun and interactive adventures! Turn reading into a thrilling quest instead of a chore by incorporating it into all your summer escapades. 

So grab those books and your family, and let the reading fun begin! Create an epic reading bucket list, dive into stories by the water, or embark on exciting scavenger hunts that bring stories to life! Make this summer the time your child discovers the enchanting world of books and carries that joy forever. 

Ready to dive in? Don’t forget to check out Corage Doll’s “Don’t Give Up, Aaliyah” book for an inspiring adventure! Happy reading! 📚✨