Blog Post Series: Preventing the Summer Slide for Parents with Multiple Kids- Fun Ways to Keep Kids Reading All Summer Long

Summer is a great time for kids to relax, but it’s also a crucial period to keep their brains active and engaged. Preventing the summer slide, especially when you have more than one child, can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be! Let’s dive into some fun and practical ways to keep your kids reading all summer long.

1. Family Reading Hour: Designate a time each day for the whole family to read together. Whether it’s after breakfast or before bed, making reading a shared activity helps kids see it as a fun and valuable part of their day. Make it even more special by creating a cozy reading nook with plenty of pillows and their favorite books.

2. Summer Reading Challenges: Create a summer reading challenge with rewards for reaching certain milestones. Libraries often have summer reading programs with fun incentives, but you can also make your own. For example, after reading five books, your kids could earn a trip to their favorite ice cream shop.

3. Book Swaps and Libraries: Organize a book swap with other families in your community. This not only provides a variety of reading materials but also encourages social interaction. Additionally, make regular visits to the library to keep your home stocked with fresh reading material.

4. Incorporate Reading into Daily Activities: Turn everyday activities into reading opportunities. Have your kids read recipes while cooking, instructions for crafts, or even maps during trips. This shows them that reading is a useful skill that applies to all aspects of life.

5. Interactive Reading Apps and Online Resources: Utilize interactive reading apps and online resources that make reading fun. Many of these tools offer games and activities that build literacy skills while keeping kids entertained.

6. Themed Reading Weeks: Create themed reading weeks where you focus on a particular topic or genre. This can be anything from mystery week to space week. Get books, movies, and even plan activities around the theme to make it a comprehensive learning experience.

Remember, the goal is to make reading a fun and integral part of your children's summer routine. By incorporating these activities, you can help prevent the summer slide and foster a lifelong love of reading.

Happy reading!

Jennifer C. Williams  
Homebuyer Education Specialist / Realtor  
Owner of Williams Tutoring Co.