Beyond the Book List: Creative Ways to Keep Kids Engaged in Reading Over Summer
Let’s face it—summer reading doesn’t always spark excitement in kids, especially when it feels like a mandatory school assignment. While book lists and reading logs have their place, they’re not always enough to keep kids turning pages once the final school bell rings.
The good news? Reading doesn’t have to mean sitting quietly with a heavy chapter book. It can be silly, social, spontaneous—and tailored to your child’s interests and learning style.
Here are some creative, low-pressure ways to keep kids of all ages engaged in reading over the summer (without forcing it).
1. Let Them Read What They Actually Like
Yes, even if it’s:
- Comic books
- Magazines about animals or sports
- Joke books
- Cookbooks
- Minecraft guides
- Fan fiction
- Instruction manuals for LEGO sets
Shrub Oak International School says that when kids feel like they have permission to read what excites them, their enthusiasm and confidence grow. Reading is reading, no matter the format.
2. Turn Reading into a Game
Gamifying reading can add just the right dose of motivation. Try:
- Reading scavenger hunts: Create a list like “Read something with a dragon,” “Find a book with a one-word title,” or “Read under a blanket fort.”
- Bingo boards: Fill squares with fun prompts—like “Read outside,” “Listen to an audiobook,” or “Read to a pet.”
- Mystery books: Wrap a few different books in paper and write a hint on each. Let your child choose a “mystery read” to unwrap and discover.
3. Start a Family Reading Ritual
When reading becomes a shared activity, it feels less like homework and more like bonding time. A few simple ideas:
- Family silent reading time after dinner or before bed (yes, phones away!)
- Read-aloud nights where you take turns reading a chapter
- Picnic + book outings to the park or backyard
- Read the book, then watch the movie nights
Kids often love to see that reading is something their grown-ups value, too.
4. Incorporate Audiobooks and Podcasts
Not every child connects with reading through traditional text—and that’s okay. Audiobooks and podcasts are excellent alternatives, especially for:
- Reluctant readers
- Kids with learning differences
- Long car rides or quiet time
Check out audiobook services like Libby, Audible, or Learning Ally, or explore kid-friendly podcasts like Brains On, Smash Boom Best, or Greeking Out.
5. Create Reading Spaces That Invite Adventure
Set the scene for storytime with a cozy, whimsical space:
- Build a DIY reading nook with blankets and pillows
- Hang string lights inside a tent or corner of the room
- Bring books outside with a hammock or a shady blanket setup
Sometimes, changing the where can make a big difference in how reading feels.
6. Use Reading to Spark Creativity
After reading, invite your child to do something with what they’ve read:
- Draw their favorite scene or character
- Write a sequel or alternate ending
- Act out part of the story with costumes or toys
- Make a recipe based on a book (e.g., butterbeer from Harry Potter)
Engaging other senses and skills helps stories stick—and encourages deeper comprehension.
7. Celebrate Small Wins
Not every child will fly through novels over the summer—and that’s perfectly fine. Focus on progress, not perfection:
- Set small, achievable goals (e.g., 10 minutes of reading a day)
- Use sticker charts or reading jars to track time or pages
- Let kids pick a reward for hitting milestones (like choosing a new book or movie)
When kids feel successful, they’re more likely to keep going.
Summer is the perfect time to let kids rediscover the fun in reading—on their terms. Whether they’re devouring graphic novels, listening to audiobooks, or reading aloud to the family dog, every page counts.
Because when reading feels like an adventure—not an assignment—kids are more likely to build a lifelong love for it.
