Ahh, sweet summer! Memorial Day (for me) is the unofficial start to longer days and sticky popsicles. We are days away from a much-needed break from early alarms and packed lunchboxes! While our kiddos are soaking up the sunshine, something sneaky can start to happenโthe summer slide.
If youโre new to the term, summer slide refers to the learning loss students can experience during the summer break, especially in reading and math. Research shows that kids can lose up to two months of reading skills over the summer if they donโt continue practicing. The younger the child, the greater the impact… yikes!
But donโt worryโI got you! It doesnโt take a full-on homeschool routine to prevent it. There are tons of creative ways to keep kids engaged, and some of the best options are completely free! In this post, Iโm sharing easy ideas plus free summer reading programs for kids from places like Barnes & Noble, Chuck E. Cheese, Pizza Hut, and more.
Whether youโre a parent, teacher, or both, youโll find something here to make summer reading simple and fun. PLEASE NOTE: Affiliate links are included throughout this post.
1. Join a Free Summer Reading Program
These programs are a total win-win: they motivate kids to read and reward them for doing it!
Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Journal (Grades 1โ6)
Kids read any eight books over the summer, record them in the downloadable journal (including their favorite part of each), and bring the completed journal to a local Barnes & Noble store. In return, they can pick a free book from a special selection! ๐ Download the 2025 Summer Reading Journal
Books-A-Million Summer Reading Adventure
Books-A-Million partners with authors to create themed summer reading challenges. In 2024, it was โRead 4 Books, Get a Free Water Bottle.โ Kids filled out a reading log with four books and received a prize in-store. Keep an eye on their Summer Reading page for this year’s update. ๐ Download the 2025 Log Here
Pizza Hutโs Camp Book It! (Ages 4โ12)
This one takes me back to my childhood! If your kids love pizza, this oneโs a no-brainer. Parents can sign up for Camp Book It!, a summer edition of the classic Book It! program. Set monthly reading goals, and when your child meets them, they earn a free personal pan pizza each month from June through August. ๐ Sign up for Summer of Storiesโข here
Chuck E. Cheese Reading Rewards
Chuck E. Cheese offers printable reward calendars, including a Reading Rewards Calendar. Kids mark off each day they spend time reading (for two weeks), then bring the completed calendar to a participating Chuck E. Cheese location to earn 10 free Play Points.
PRO TIP: You can reuse this calendar throughout the summer! ๐ Download the Reading Rewards Calendar
Local Libraries & Statewide Programs
Many public libraries offer summer reading challenges with prizes, storytime events, and even performances. Some states also sponsor reading initiatives with digital options. Check your local library’s website or stop by the childrenโs desk for their free summer reading programs!
2. Let Kids Choose Their Own Books
Do you know one of the biggest predictors of reading engagement? Choice.
Let children browse at the library or bookstore and pick what interests themโgraphic novels, joke books, fantasy, nonfiction, even cookbooks! If they love it, theyโll read it. Thatโs what counts.
PRO TIP: Create a โyes shelfโ at home. Stock it with books they can read anytime, anywhere. Add post-its for them to share favorite quotes or draw about what they read!
3. Make Reading Part of Daily Life
Reading doesnโt have to feel like a school assignment! Look for creative ways to weave it into your daily summer rhythm:
- Morning basket time: Start the day with a picture book or chapter.
- Car audiobooks: Let Audible or Libby do the reading while you drive.
- Bedtime routine: Even older kids enjoy being read to!
- Scavenger hunts: Use clues to get kids reading directions or signs while out and about.
- Reading picnics: Grab a blanket and head to the backyard or park. Don’t forget snacks!
4. Start a Simple Book Club
Invite a few friends (or cousins!) and host a casual summer book club. Choose one book each month, meet to talk about it, and throw in themed snacks or a craft to celebrate. Kids love the social aspect, and youโll be sneaking in all that great comprehension practice. It’s a win-win!
5. Try Digital Options for Reluctant Readers
Some kids just arenโt into physical booksโand thatโs okay! Try ebooks, audiobooks, or reading apps that gamify the experience. A few options to consider:
- Epic! (free for educators, often free during summer for families)
- Libby (free through your library card)
- PBS Kids Reading Games
- Storyline Online (celebrities read books aloudโit’s magical!)
Final Thoughts
Preventing the summer slide doesnโt require hours of worksheets or expensive programs. With a little intention and a dash of creativity, your child can soar into the next school year with strong reading skills and a love for books!
ACTIONABLE STEPS: Grab your sunglasses, stock the beach bag with your favorite titles, and let the summer reading adventures begin!
What are your familyโs favorite summer reading programs? Iโd love to hear more in the comments!
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