As the final school bell rings and children race into summer break, a lesser-known phenomenon quietly threatens their academic progress: the “summer slide.” Research shows that students—especially those from low-income households—can lose up to two months of reading achievement during the summer.
Fortunately, there’s a simple and powerful antidote: books.
Reading during the summer isn’t just a way to pass the time; it’s a proven method to keep young minds sharp, expand imagination, build vocabulary, and maintain academic gains. Whether it’s diving into an exciting adventure, exploring a new culture, or learning about real-life heroes, books help kids continue growing outside of the classroom.
Why Summer Reading Matters
Prevents learning loss: Students who don’t read over the summer can fall behind in school, making each new academic year more difficult.
Strengthens emotional intelligence: Reading fiction enhances empathy and understanding of others.
Improves focus and memory: The structure of books trains the brain to process and retain information.
Builds better habits: Reading daily can create lifelong learners and critical thinkers.
Parents and caregivers don’t need to break the bank to keep kids engaged. There are many free programs available that encourage summer reading and provide exciting rewards, activities, and access to books.
Free Reading Programs for Kids – All Year Long
1. Local Public Libraries
Most libraries offer summer reading challenges, storytimes, and book clubs. Kids can track their reading and win prizes. Visit your local library’s website or check out Public Libraries Online for resources nationwide.
2. Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program
Kids in grades 1–6 can earn a free book by reading eight books and completing a reading journal. Learn more and download the journal at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/b/summer-reading/_/N-2mir.
3. Pizza Hut’s Camp BOOK IT!
This free digital program runs during June, July, and August. Parents can track their child’s reading and earn free pizza rewards! Enroll at https://www.bookitprogram.com.
4. Scholastic Home Base
Scholastic offers a free online reading program where kids can join virtual author events, play games, and track their reading. Visit https://www.scholastic.com/homebase to register.
5. Reading is Fundamental (RIF)
RIF provides free books, literacy activities, and digital reading resources for families year-round. Explore tools and tips at https://www.rif.org.
6. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Founded in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a global book gifting program that mails free, high-quality, age-appropriate books to children from birth until age five. Each month, enrolled children receive a book personalized with their name, delivered directly to their home, fostering a love for reading from an early age. The program operates in various countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the Republic of Ireland, with over 270 million books gifted as of February 2025. In Alabama, the United Way of Southwest Alabama serves as a local affiliate, distributing thousands of books annually to children in Choctaw and Mobile counties.
To check availability in your area and enroll your child, visit https://imaginationlibrary.com/check-availability/.
Tips for Encouraging Summer Reading
Set a routine: Encourage kids to read at the same time every day—like before bed or after breakfast.
Make it social: Start a neighborhood reading club or trade books with friends.
Follow their interests: Let children choose topics and genres that excite them.
Lead by example: When kids see adults reading, they’re more likely to read themselves.
This summer, let’s keep our youth connected to curiosity, imagination, and learning. Whether it’s through a free program or a quiet afternoon with a library book, the habit of reading is a gift that lasts a lifetime.
Read. Reflect. Rise.
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Tanisha D. Davis is a writer, youth advocate, and educator dedicated to empowering the next generation through literacy and storytelling.
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