Summer is starting to peek its way around the corner, and this is the season when children typically have more free time—so why not encourage them to spend part of that time reading? Books are free at your local public library, and many if not all of the libraries will have some sort of summer reading program; many of these programs include incentives and prizes for your children.
Find a listing of Ohio libraries here. If you don’t see your local library, it is probably a branch of another library that’s on the list. Contact the libraries near you to discover what fun summer reading programs are about to start.
Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Triathlon
This summer reading program runs from May 17, 2016 to Sept. 6, 2016. To participate, download and print the Barnes & Noble summer reading journal. Then your child needs to read eight books (free at any public library) and then choose three of the four questions listed in the journal to answer. These are the questions:
- What book made you read faster than ever before?
- What is the longest book you've ever read?
- In which series have you read the most books?
- What book made you stretch your imagination the most?
You will need to make sure that your child fills out the form completely (or help him or her to do so) and you need to sign the form to verify that your child read the eight books. Then, take the form to the Barnes & Noble closest to you to get your free book. You can see the list of options for the free book here.
Chuck E. Cheese Reading Rewards 2016
This reading program actually goes on all year long. You simply download and print their reading rewards calendar. Once your child has read for two straight weeks (and records that on the calendar), you can go to Chuck E. Cheese (one is located in North Olmsted); turn in the completed calendar; and receive 10 free playing tokens.
Scholastic Summer Reading Challenge
In this program, your child can register for the program online. He or she reads as many books as possible and records details to "get awesome virtual prizes." Children can also discover more information about their favorite authors and enter a sweepstakes to win prizes from Klutz. And, by entering your birthdate here, you can get parental resources to help your child to enjoy reading.
That’s Not All!
There are plenty more summer reading programs available for children. Find more at Freebies.About.com.
If your child is still too young to read, here are tips to help them:
- Tell your child stories.
- Sing songs and recite short poems or rhymes to your child.
- Encourage your child to pretend to read and applaud the effort to learn.
- Let your child see you red and enjoy doing so.
- Encourage your older children to read to the younger ones
Looking for more ways to enrich your child’s life? Horizon Education Centers provide affordable quality care, including educational and enrichment opportunities for children in the following Northeast Ohio locations.
