According to a 2023 study reported by Scholastic, less than half of 6–8 year olds report frequently reading for fun. This number declines among older children, with only 21% of 12–14 year olds identifying as frequent readers.
Despite reading rates among youth steadily declining, the vast majority of parents want their child to read more outside of the classroom. The same Scholastic study found that 82% of parents of 6–17 year olds wish their child would read more books for fun.
But how do you foster a love of reading when your student appears disinterested? Encouraging your child to read may be especially challenging during the summer, when it feels like all your child wants to do is hang out with friends, go swimming, and play video games. However, summer can be a great time to build a regular reading habit, as your child probably has more free time than they do during the school year.
Check out our top summer reading tips for parents to make a reader out of your student this summer.
Why is summer reading important?
Reading is the foundation of many academic fields. A study published in the Psychological Medicine journal found that children who read for fun early in life get better test scores in adolescence. Specifically, students who were frequent readers did better on tests measuring verbal learning, memory and speech development.
Additionally, the study found that children who read for fun had improved attention spans, fewer behavioral problems and less stress.
Reading is particularly important over the summer as it helps kids maintain (and improve!) their literacy skills while they’re away from school. Regular reading can help prevent the “summer slide”—a term used to describe learning loss over summer break.
In addition to helping your child stay sharp for the upcoming school year, summer reading encourages imagination, creativity and discovery. By exploring different genres and subjects, your child can broaden their horizons and discover new interests. Reading also promotes mental well-being and relaxation.
Summer reading tips for elementary school students
Set a consistent time for reading
Try scheduling a consistent time for summer reading. Whether that be bedtime, after dinner, or in the morning before your summertime activities start, creating consistency is key for developing good reading habits.
Have your child read aloud to you
Foster a love of reading by encouraging your student to read aloud to you. Make it fun by suggesting they create voices for the characters. By choosing increasingly complex books, you can increase your student’s vocabulary and build their confidence.
Go on book-themed outings
Turn reading into an event by visiting your local library or bookstore to check out what’s new. Consider making these outings a regular occurrence that your child can look forward to. For example, you could make a tradition out of going to the library every Saturday afternoon.
Sign up for a summer reading program
Speaking of libraries, most libraries host summer reading programs for kids. These programs are a great way to challenge your child to read more over the summer.. These programs may include goals such as reading for a certain amount of minutes, reading a particular type of book, or attending book-themed events. Many libraries offer small prizes as summer reading incentives. Take advantage of the free resources your library has to offer and make reading fun!
Bring books with you while traveling
Encourage reading over screen time by keeping a book in the car at all times. If you’re going on vacation this summer, have your child pack a few books to bring along. Having a book on hand can keep your child entertained during the not-so-fun parts of travel.
Summer reading tips for middle school students
Explore different genres and formats
Let your student choose their own reading material. Encourage them to try a variety of genres and formats (nonfiction, graphic novels, etc.). If they try something new and aren’t connecting with it, let them set it aside and try something else. Reading is supposed to be fun, not a chore!
Ask questions about what your child is reading
Show that you’re engaged and interested in your child’s reading by asking them about their favorite books. What do they like about the book? Who are their favorite characters? You can take this a step further by reading the same book together and discussing the story.
Attend local events
Libraries and local bookstores often host literary activities, events, and programs for all age groups. Events for middle school age children might include author visits, writing workshops, or book clubs. These events are a great way to celebrate learning and meet new friends.
Create a “book nook”
Designate a spot in your home for reading. All it takes is a comfy chair and a good reading lamp in a spot tucked away from the hustle and bustle of other family activities. Your child will be much more encouraged to read if they have a cozy spot where they can relax.
Be a reading role model
Your child may be more encouraged to read if they see you enjoying and making time for reading. Model a positive attitude towards reading by making it a part of your daily routine and setting your own reading goals. Your child will view reading as a part of daily life rather than a chore.
Summer reading tips for high school students
Set reading goals
High school is a great time to set more specific reading goals, such as finishing a certain number of books over the summer or reading for a certain amount of time a day. Goals can be particularly helpful if your high schooler has assigned reading they need to get through before the end of the summer.
Use social media
If your teenager is going to be on social media anyway, why not use it to find new book recommendations? Encourage your child to download the Goodreads app to check out book reviews and sign up for a reading challenge. There are also plenty of BookTokers, BookTubers, and Bookstagrammers (readers, librarians, bookstore owners, editors, publishers, etc) who review books and share their love of reading.
Challenge your teen to a reading competition
At the beginning of summer, you and your teen can create your own To Be Read (TBD) lists. Consider using themes like diversity, female protagonists, villains you love to hate, classic literature, banned books, social issues, etc. Then, set a deadline for the end of summer and see who can read more books off their list.
Join a book club
Many libraries offer book clubs specifically for teens, providing a space where young readers can discuss books, share opinions and connect with their peers. These types of groups can foster a sense of community and help your child discover new favorite books.
Explore audiobooks
Is your teen struggling to find time to read? Even over the summer, high schoolers might be busy with summer jobs, volunteering and a variety of other activities. Listening to audiobooks can be a great way for your child to stay on top of their reading goals while multitasking.
Developing a summer reading habit can turn your child into a lifelong reader. By the time school starts again, your child will be ready to tackle the new year with confidence.
At BASIS Charter Schools, we inspire our students to love learning. Our curriculum blends STEM, humanities and arts to create a well-rounded learning experience that sets students up for success. Learn more about our tuition-free public charter schools by finding a school near you and scheduling a tour today.
