Summer is the perfect time to spark a love of reading in your kids while enjoying a few fun rewards along the way! Whether you're planning to chill at home or visit your local library, there are plenty of national reading programs that make it easy (and exciting!) to keep kids reading all summer long. And the best part? Most of these programs offer freebies just for turning pages!
Here are some top summer reading programs your family should check out this year:
Kids in grades 1-6 can earn a FREE book by reading eight books and writing a short sentence about each in their Barnes & Noble Reading Journal. Bring the completed journal to a local store and let them choose a free book from the summer reading selection!
BAM! rewards readers with a free backpack when they complete the summer reading adventure and turn in their completed log.
If you haven’t signed up yet, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a must! Kids ages 1-5 receive a free book in the mail every month until their 5th birthday. It’s a beautiful way to build your home library.
A classic favorite! Through the BOOK IT! program, kids can earn a free personal pan pizza after reaching their reading goals. Available to homeschoolers too!
Read 5 books and earn a FREE kids meal coupon through Panda Express’ summer reading challenge.
Download a Reading Rewards Calendar and when your child completes their goal, they can turn it in for 10 FREE play points at Chuck E. Cheese!
Your local library is a treasure trove of free summer activities and reading incentives. Many host:
Storytimes
Reading challenges
Craft and STEM workshops
Family movie nights
Stop by your neighborhood branch and sign your kids up for a library card if they don’t have one already. It’s a great way to teach responsibility and open up access to thousands of free books, audiobooks, and more.
Pair your reading goals with fun experiences:
Pack a picnic and read at the park
Bring books to the pool or beach
Create a summer reading nook at home
Reading doesn’t have to feel like homework. With these fun incentives and a little creativity, it can be the highlight of your summer!
Stay tuned for our upcoming list of recommended summer reads for every age!
Comments will be approved before showing up.
Looking for the perfect Juneteenth baby outfit? Whether it’s your little one’s first celebration or part of a growing family tradition, we’ve got sweet, meaningful styles designed just for the occasion.
Planning a beach or pool day with your baby? Here’s your guide to the best swim diapers - disposable and reusable - plus must-know tips to keep things clean, comfy, and fun in the sun.
Looking for Juneteenth shirts from a Black-owned brand? Shop our exclusive collection of tees that honor freedom, history, and culture — made with love in Philly and perfect for the whole family.
Amber Bowie
Author