11 Creative Ways to Enjoy Reading This Summer

As a kid, I’d lug a tote of books to the treehouse and sprawl out for hours, meeting new people and visiting exciting places without ever leaving my backyard. As an adult, I still love getting lost in a good book, and hope to pass my passion for summer reading onto my kids.

For kids today who have plenty of devices and distractions that compete with books, it can be hard to learn how to enjoy reading. And for parents, encouraging your kids to work through a summer reading list and discovering all the worlds and characters waiting for them can also be a challenge.

A summer reading list for kids isn’t just a nice idea. The American Library Association says summer reading programs benefit kids by:

• encouraging a lifelong reading habit
• drawing in reluctant readers with engaging activities
• keeping skills up during summer break
• generating interest in exploring books

Usually, my family of six cools off at our local public library, participating in summer storytimes and librarian-led activities. Sometimes though, these things just aren’t possible. Whether it’s libraries being closed, a sick kid stuck at home, or even a bit of boredom with your local library’s book offerings, it can mean having to brainstorm fresh ways to cultivate a passion for reading.

Thankfully, new technology and old-fashioned imagination bring us plenty of new ways to enjoy summer reading from home. There are plenty of fresh ways for kids (no matter their ages or reading level!) and grown-ups to read together this summer.

1. Load up on e-books. Visit your local library’s website to access free digital subscription services for kids of all ages. Borrow e-books, e-comics, and e-magazines on your mobile device, tablet, or computer. Some online collections for kids even feature animated, talking picture books for young children developing literacy skills. If your child isn’t immediately taken with the idea of reading, moving the activity to a device can make it feel more appealing and absorbing. (Bonus: Digital check-outs expire automatically — no late fees!)
2. Listen to a storytime podcast. Podcasts aren’t just for grown-ups! Grab headphones or connect a speaker to listen to a storytime from anywhere. Whether you’re looking for calming bedtime stories or exciting short stories written by kids, for kids, there’s a little something for everyone. Podcast episodes are free to stream and download, but some do feature advertisements or commercials. To get started, just search the “Kids & Family” category in your phone’s podcast app. Some of my family’s favorites include: Julie’s Library (hosted by Julie Andrews where she reads her favorite children's books — with sound effects!), Little Stories for Tiny People (a perfect — and whimsical! — pick for bedtime), and the PBS KIDS Molly of Denali podcast that goes with the show!
3. Create a book nook. A little creativity can go a long way in bringing whimsy to getting through a summer reading list for kids. Plus, it can be a soothing way to calm down if kids are feeling emotional or overwhelmed. Create a cozy indoor reading nook with blankets, pillows, or favorite stuffed animals. When you sense big emotions forming, sit with your child in that space, and read a favorite book together. (Here are five ways books can help your anxious child!)
4. Go on a StoryWalk. Our public parks offer StoryWalks, an outdoor reading experience that gets us moving and excited to see what happens next in a book. A children’s book is deconstructed and its pages are laminated and placed on stakes or kiosks along a walking trail. If these aren’t offered where you live, put your personal spin on it. Load up your wagon with kids and a favorite book, and plan pitstops around your neighborhood for reading parts of the book. When you get home, you’ll have finished a whole story and stretched your legs, too! Get inspired by these 10 picture books that inspire outdoor exploration!
5. Opt for curbside pickup. I did a happy dance when my library announced patrons could place holds on materials for curbside pickup service. If your closest public library doesn’t offer it, see if it’s an option in a nearby town’s public library. Many libraries are also offering the option to digitally sign up for a card. (My family is loving this summer reading list for kids!)
6. Visit a little free library. Look over the Free Little Library world map to see if there’s a little library in your neighborhood. They’re a great way for kids to find new book titles and pick out their own favorites. Consider donating some books from your home that your child might have grown out of, and give another child the thing that might just teach them how to enjoy reading. If you don’t have a Free Little Library in your neighborhood, why not start one with some titles from your summer reading list for kids?
7. Try an audiobook. Books on tape have gotten an upgrade! If you have a library card, your family already has free access to thousands of popular audiobooks — no in-person visits required. Looking for a more permanent purchase? You can also buy favorite audiobooks and download them on your devices to listen to again and again!
8. Move outdoors. Sometimes just relocating to the great outdoors can make reading feel more special. Bring a blanket or beach towel outside and get to reading under the sunshine — just don’t forget the sunscreen! Make it extra special by heading outside with a flashlight and reading under the stars. Need some new book ideas? Here’s a summer fun book list to get you started.
9. Visit your local library’s website. Libraries may be closed to the public or have limited hours, but that doesn’t mean librarians aren’t hard at work. My local library streams live videos for families including interactive puppet shows, book readings, and book-themed craft classes. You may not have heard about all the great programs your local library is running, so be sure to visit their website and take advantage of the free programs on offer.
10. Write and illustrate your own book. Learning how to enjoy reading goes hand in hand with enjoying writing. All you need is paper, some crayons or markers, and a little imagination. Create a fun memory by brainstorming your own book together and then bringing it to life. (Need some inspiration to get started? Make a book about friends with Daniel Tiger!)
11. Create your own storytime. Summer travel isn’t always possible to do. If your little ones are missing friends and family, plan your own interactive storytime! Invite a loved one to join your family on a video call and ask them to read one of their favorite childhood books. Or, flip the script and ask your beginning reader to show off her new skills while a loved one watches and listens. (Here are more tips for creating storytime at home!)

The key to enjoying reading lies in the magic and creativity of hearing and sharing stories. Whether your kid has a summer reading list that they’re voraciously working through or they’re a little harder to encourage to pick up a book, this creative list will get them thinking about books as a source of new stories, adventure, and fun. The more you encourage them to engage with books, the more you’ll be drawing them into a lifelong habit of reading and exploring literacy ideas that will serve them for the rest of their lives.