Summer is the perfect time to help kids discover that reading can be fun instead of frustrating. When kids can connect imagination and curiosity, they are more likely to keep learning over the summer. Keeping kids engaged in reading over the summer doesn’t have to be a battle and with these 4 fun ideas, kids will keep reading all summer long.
1. Create your own Summer Reading BINGO chart
BINGO spaces could be filled with challenges like:
-read under a blanket fort
-read to a pet
-read under a tree
-read a book about dinosaurs
-read a book with a friend
-read at the pool
-read to a sibling
-read a book about sports
-read a book at breakfast
-read a book about butterflies
When they complete a BINGO, here are some simple prize ideas: stickers, go out for ice cream, choose dinner one night, or buy a new book at a bookstore.
2. Mix reading with a baking activity
Kids love connecting books with a hands-on activity. Create your own themed recipe or meal to go along with a book they've read. Need some help with ideas and themes? Order a Bake It Books baking kit box from us and let us do the work for you! We'll choose the book and recipe and include all of the baking tools and pre-measured ingredients so you can get right to reading and baking together.
3. Let kids choose what they read
Take a trip to the library and let them walk the aisles and see which books speak to them. Kids are more likely to stick with reading when they pick books that match their interests. And yes, graphic novels, magazines, and audiobooks all count too!
4. Read a book and then watch the movie
Find a book that also has a movie adaptation. Read the book and then gather some popcorn and treats (maybe even your completed Bake It Books dessert!), watch the movie together, and compare any similarities and differences.
However you choose to implement reading this summer, remember that reading doesn't have to feel like schoolwork. Have fun with it and watch their reading and creativity blossom!