Fun ways to encourage summer reading

(and prevent the summer slide)

Summer is a time for sunshine, freedom, and family adventures. However, it can also be when many kids lose hard-earned academic progress, especially in reading. This phenomenon, known as the "summer slide," negatively impacts comprehension, vocabulary, fluency, and confidence. The good news? Reading can be fun and enjoyable. This summer is the perfect season to make reading feel less like schoolwork and more like an adventure.

Here are some practical and playful ways to help your child fall in love with reading this summer, while keeping their skills sharp.

Let kids choose their reading material

When kids get to choose what they read, they are more likely to stick with it. Encourage your child to explore various types of books. Graphic novels, joke books, how-to guides, and even cookbooks all count! Any reading helps build vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills.

Tip: At the start of summer, create a “to-be-read” basket together filled with titles they’re excited about.

Incorporate real-world reading

Reading isn’t limited to storytime. Involve your child in reading real-world materials. Whether it’s a recipe, street signs during a road trip, or directions for a scavenger hunt, these activities expose reluctant readers to different forms of reading.

Tip: Keep books in the car, at the kitchen table, by the pool, or in a backyard tent.

Frequent library visits

One of the best ways to inspire reading? Regular trips to your local library. Many libraries host summer reading programs, themed events, craft days, and book clubs for all ages. Let your child explore new genres, join a reading challenge, or simply wander the shelves until their curiosity is piqued. These library visits reinforce the idea that reading is a lifelong adventure, not just a school subject.

Tip: Sign your child up for their own library card. Most libraries just need a form of identification from the parent.

Create a cozy reading nook

A well-designed reading nook can make a significant difference. A pile of pillows, a soft blanket, and a basket filled with favorite books can create a retreat for your child. Bonus points for twinkle lights or a small fan on hot days!

Tip: Allow your child to design their reading corner, using items from around the home. They’ll be more likely to use it.

Set fun challenges

Motivate your child with playful challenges. For example, you might ask, “Can we finish five books by August?” or “Let’s read outside three times this month.” You could even create a bracket challenge between books to track which one your child enjoys the most! Keep it playful and pressure-free.

Tip: Use a summer reading tracker or sticker chart as a visual motivator.

Link books with hands-on experiences

Match books with relevant, hands-on experiences. If you read about gardening, plant something together. Finished a book about space? Stargaze that night! This approach brings stories to life and gives your child something exciting to discuss beyond just the narrative.

Tip: Choose books related to your vacation destination or summer interests, such as sports, animals, or science.

Model good reading habits

Children model their behavior after adults. If they see you enjoying a book, they are likely to follow suit. Whether it's a novel, magazine, or newspaper, reading in front of your kids shows them that reading is a lifelong habit, not just a school requirement.

Tip: Make reading a family activity. Everyone can grab a book and read together, even for just 10 minutes each day. Extra credit? Put the phones away.

Support for struggling readers

For children who struggle with reading or have a learning difference like dyslexia, consistent instruction over the summer helps prevent regression and can accelerate progress. At Ravinia Reading Center, we remain open all summer to assist kids in learning and building confidence.

Tip: Maintain momentum and minimize frustration in the fall by sticking with lessons all summer.

Embracing the joy of reading

Summer should be joyful, and so should reading. By integrating reading into your child’s daily routine in natural, engaging ways, you’ll help them build essential skills, confidence, and a lifelong curiosity.

And if your child needs more targeted support, we're here to help. Our expert speech-language pathologists customize instruction to meet your child’s unique needs, making reading not only achievable but also enjoyable.

Now’s the perfect time to set up your summer sessions. Let’s turn the summer slide into a summer soar!