As summer starts and the kids are looking for things to do, I have found that a little reading competition is a good way to encourage them to keep up their reading times during the summer. I have compiled a list of Summer Reading Programs that are available in our area. (As always, it doesn’t hurt to call ahead and double check that the program is still active before loading up the car)
- Central Rappahannock Regional Library: Our library has its own Summer Reading program full of Missions, Reading Lists, Fun Games, Digital Badges, points and a certificate of completion! This program is for all ages from baby to adult. (That’s right adults, they have points and prizes for you too!)
Are you in 4th or 5th grade? Every time you log reading minutes, you'll automatically be entered into a bi-weekly drawing for free movie tickets. But wait, it gets better! Use your points to purchase raffle tickets! Raffled items include books, movie passes and an iPad mini! Sign up and get the details on points & prizes here: http://www.librarypoint.org/summer
- Barnes & Noble provides a great list of summer reading suggestions, along with a printable journal. Once you complete your journal, take it to the store to grab your FREE book. This program is for grades 1 – 6 and runs through September 3, 2018.
Print your journal here: https://specialists.barnesandnoble.com/summerreading?summer-reading-lists-for-kids=
- Books A Million’s Summer Reading Adventure asks you to choose 4 books from their Summer Reading Adventure Section. After reading each book, write about each book in your Summer Reading Adventure notebook (print it from the link below) and then show your completed notebook to a store associate to receive free pencils and case. http://images.booksamillion.com/home_flash/flashbanner_1/content/SummerReadingProgramInfov2.pdf
- Lifeway’s Summer Reading program requires you to read six books over the course of the summer and memorize six scripture verses. Turn in your completed journal (print yours here: https://www.lifeway.com/en/special-emphasis/summer-reading) and turn it in at the store to get a free book and free Bible! This program is geared towards grades 1-6 but ages 1-5 are also welcome to participate.
- Sylan’s Book Adventure runs through July 31, 2018. They have a list of summer reading suggestions and a Create your own Reading Challenge link. View those here: http://www.bookadventure.com/Home.aspx
- Chuck E. Cheese offers a printable reading chart. Have your kids check it off to score 10 free tokens on their next visit. Print your copy here: https://www.chuckecheese.com/deals-offers/rewards-calendars
- The Ninth Annual New York Times Summer Reading Contest
This one sounds great for the older kids! Anyone 13 to 19 years old from anywhere in the world can post an answer any week until Friday, Aug. 24, and contestants can choose from any Times article, essay, video, interactive, podcast or photograph published in 2018, on any topic they like. The contest runs from June 15 to Aug. 24. Find all of the details here: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/02/learning/the-ninth-annual-new-york-times-summer-reading-contest.html
"Fill your house with stacks of books, in all the crannies and all the nooks." — Dr. Seuss