Keep Kids Reading All Summer Long with RIF’s Summer Reading Program

What are Summer Reading Programs?

A summer reading program is an initiative designed to encourage children to read during the summer break. These programs provide a wide range of reading materials, activities, and incentives to motivate kids to keep reading while school is out. Reading Challenges are often part of a summer reading program. Many programs focus on specific age groups and offer tailored recommendations based on reading levels and interests. Families can explore different types of summer reading programs through their schools, libraries, and non-profits like Reading Is Fundamental (RIF).

Benefits of Participating in Summer Reading Programs

There are many benefits of participating in summer reading programs including:

Reinforce Core Skills

Studies show that students who don't engage in educational activities over the summer often experience a decline in reading and comprehension skills, commonly known as the “summer slide”. Children who participate in a summer reading program are less likely to lose the skills they build up during the school year and are more prepared for the new school year.

Provides Book Choice

Research has shown that the power of choice drives kids’ enjoyment of summer reading. Children are more likely to read when they can choose what they want to read. Without designated homework assignments and assigned reading that accompanies the school year, summertime reading empowers children to pick books that interest them and to read just for fun.

Encourages a Love of Reading

Many summer reading programs include a summer reading challenge which makes reading fun and rewarding. With incentives like certificates, reading logs, and bookmarks, children feel motivated to read more. The more they read, the better they read. The summer is the perfect opportunity for a child to simply choose a book to read based on what they are interested in, and without the pressures of the school year.

Improves Academic Performance

Kids who participate in summer reading programs are more likely to show improved literacy skills. Regular and frequent reading helps enhance vocabulary, comprehension, and writing skills, all of which contribute to academic success in the upcoming year.

Enhances Family Bonding

Summer reading isn't just for kids! Many summer reading programs include family participation elements, encouraging families to read together. This provides a unique bonding experience and encourages positive discussions around books. Family members can also model strong reading habits.

Make Summer Reading Exciting with Reading Is Fundamental (RIF)

Every year, RIF offers a unique free, online Summer Reading Program to create the joy of reading all summer long. This year’s RIF’s theme is RIF’s Summer Reading Camp, offering age- specific recommended book lists, a summer reading challenge, engaging reading activities, read-alouds, and so much more. Get started on your road to summer reading camp and check out all the opportunities to engage your child this summer.

In addition, we invite families to also check out our prior summer reading programs, offering a variety of great book lists and activities.