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As I grew up, my favorite part of summer was always reading. Having been lucky enough to live two blocks from a public library, I made weekly trips to the library (if not more often). The librarian frequently had to pull out her heavy-duty plastic book bags to help my sisters and me carry our large stacks of books home with us. Of course, part of my motivation for summer reading was the sheer fun. But I also loved the summer reading programs that offered free books as incentives.
As a teacher, I now realize the full benefit of reading programs. Many students look forward to summer vacation as an escape from school but are bored by July. Others find summer to be a wonderful complement to school: stepping out of the classroom and experiencing life and the world hands-on. Summer reading is important for students of all ages regardless of reading level and ability. Without the pressure of homework, project deadlines, and required reading lists, students have the ability to explore the wealth of books that appeal to their tastes while keeping their minds active and engaged.
When I see a summer reading program promotion, I still get a thrill of summery excitement even though I am now too old for most programs. I want to share with you some excellent possibilities for you and your families to enjoy this summer. Of course, if you come across another great summer resource, please share it with us!
The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction offers a great program, and the program is not just for kids! Readers ages five and up can earn free passes to eleven different historical sites in Wisconsin, including the Wade House, the Wisconsin Historical Museum, and Old World Wisconsin.
One of my favorites is Barnes and Noble. The company provides a downloadable reading journal for kids from ages 3–12 to fill out as they read. Once the kids have completed their journals, they earn free books from the store! Completed journals are also entered into a contest to win a free Nook e-reader. These devices aren’t just for adults; literally thousands of children’s books can be stored and enjoyed on these devices, which now come in color. Barnes and Noble even offers a downloadable activity kit for parents to share with their kids!
The Barnes and Nobles in Green Bay and Appleton have schedules full of special events. Various reading groups meet for discussion throughout the summer, and children’s reading times are scheduled regularly. If you feel that the drive is a little too far, then carpool or follow this mom’s example and start your own summer reading club!
And of course, don’t forget to stop by your local library and bookstores once summer is here for more great programs, ideas, and (of course) books.
Over the last couple of months, stores have been preparing us for summer by stocking up on flip-flops, sunscreen, beach towels, and books. If you’re surprised to see books on the list, don’t be! Books are the perfect way to enhance a road trip, a plane ride, or a trip to the beach. With no deadlines to worry about, you can truly enjoy reading a good book at your own pace.