Summer break is a much-needed time for kids to relax and recharge outside of the classroom. But without regular reading, some children (especially younger kids who are just learning to read) can experience a dip in reading skills and comprehension.

Encouraging your child to read a little each day can help them stay on track while still enjoying all the fun of summer break. It’s also a great opportunity to teach them about your local library.

Summer Reading Program WFMC Health

Why Summer Reading Matters

Reading during the summer helps your child retain the skills they learned during the school year while also building confidence for the next grade. It also supports their imagination, vocabulary, and problem-solving skills. There’s a book at the library for every interest, from children’s fantasy or graphic novels to nonfiction books about animals or space.

Make Reading Fun

Building strong reading habits and cultivating a love of books means reading needs to be enjoyable (and not something that feels like homework). Here are a few ways to make reading part of your child’s summer routine:

  • Join a summer reading program. Most public libraries offer summer programs for kids, with activities, reading trackers, and incentives to encourage reading throughout summer break.
  • Let them choose their books. Kids are more likely to read and be excited about reading when they get to pick out books themselves. Give them options or take them to the library to browse the shelves.
  • Make it special. Set up a cozy reading nook at home or bring books along for a picnic at the park.
  • Make reading a family activity. Try reading together in the morning before breakfast or winding down with a new book before bed.

Visit and Support Your Local Library

Your public library is one of the best (and free!) resources for summer reading. Teach your child how to get their own library card, how to check out a book, and how to explore different sections—like picture books, chapter books, and digital materials. Like we mentioned above, most libraries also offer summer reading programs with fun incentives, themed events, and even storytimes or crafts. Visiting the library is a great way to help your child build a love for reading while supporting your community.

Celebrate Their Progress

Kids love being recognized for their accomplishments, and celebrating their reading efforts can keep the motivation going.

  • Use a sticker chart to track daily reading time or pages read.
  • Reward milestones with a trip to the bookstore or library.
  • Talk about books together. Ask what they like about the story or what they think will happen next. Talking about what they’ve read helps build their comprehension and shows you value what they’re reading.

Keep It Fun and Casual

Your child doesn’t need to read every day! If they don’t want to read, that’s okay. Try to avoid forcing it or turning it into a battle. The goal is to create positive associations with books and reading. With a little creativity (and sometimes patience), you can nurture your child’s relationship with books, help them stay engaged with learning, and prepare them for next school year.

This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your child’s pediatrician.

This blog post was first published on WFMCHealth.org.