Summer break may be here, but that does not mean children should stop reading. Check out these resources to grow their literacy skills all summer long and avoid the summer slide!
Summer Reading Challenges
Every child is unique, so find a summer reading challenge that appeals to them. We have a few suggestions here:
100 Ways to Read: Read 100 books this summer or challenge your child to read in 100 different places and check them off as you go. You can pick up a copy of this list at the RUSD Welcome Center located at 3109 Mt. Pleasant St. It's open Monday - Thursday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Adventure Begins: The Racine Public Library's summer reading challenge is now underway. Children and teens can sign up for it at the library's youth services desk for a chance to win a prize. Don't forget to check out the library's other summer programming, including an Amazing Library Race, STEAM challenges, crafts and more!
Outside the Box: Need something more? Check out some of the ideas listed
. There are nine different challenges that are great for any age and will help you discover new books at the library.
Have a student entering 4K or 5K?
Our youngest readers can practice literacy skills this summer too! It's as easy at 1, 2, 3!
Keep books at home! If your child is under 5, you can sign up to receive a free book in the mail every month! Register here.
Read aloud! If you're short on time, pull up one of the read aloud video libraries listed here.
Work in literacy skills wherever you are, no matter what you're doing! Check out these ten tips for families with young children.
Additional Activities that Promote Literacy
Stock up on dollar store supplies to keep your children's brains active all summer long. Our reading specialists have found plenty of options!
Grab a board game!
They’re fun and educational - really! Games can help boost a child's language development, teach them little life lessons and they provide an opportunity for some quality family time too. Discover other benefits to playing board games here.
Discover New Books:
First of all, you know when you're asked to read the same book over and over? Do it! There are plenty of ways to share the same story, again and again, even if you can recite it word for word, front to back. Freshening up a child's favorite story is one way to instill a love of learning. Find more here!
But, if you're really looking for new reads, browse books by topic here! Whether your child loves folktales, dinosaurs, math, time travel, cooking or superheroes - there are books for every interest and your child might even find a new fav (to read over and over again).