Now that school is over, let’s talk reading, summer reading with our kids. Without homework and writing assignments, reading can be the grand adventure it’s meant to be. I’m excited to share some great ways to switch things up this summer, so it’s fun for everyone.

Let’s start our summer reading adventure with your local library. They know how to make reading fun for your child, and easy on you. Libraries know kids and books and they want kids to read, so they create and host Summer Reading Programs. At our library, they go all out to make it a really big deal. Once they decide a theme, they create kid friendly marketing, fun activities and award prizes for participating. We have an incredible library and this year’s theme is Wizard of Oz.

Along with the interactive exhibits, game days and special events, they also host a Summer Reading Challenge. This is why it’s so good:

• The library sets up reading goals, age appropriate and ones you can adapt to your child’s reading level.
• Kids register to participate. So, it’s a choice and commitment they make, and they feel really cool when they sign up. In our family we made this a very big deal!
• The library provides a reading log, so kids can track their reading time. It’s always good to see the how much time is being spent reading. This can help motivate kids and parents.
• When kids meet their goals, they head back to the library to collect praise and prizes! They feel good about meeting their goals, honoring a commitment and the prizes are a fun extra.
• Best of all, there are no essays to write, tests to take, or stress to be had. Kids read for the pleasure of a good story.

Join forces with your local library this summer. Stop in, check out some books for the kids and see what your library has to offer this summer.