Join Our Read and Grow Across America Reading Challenge

Why We Love Reading Challenges: Growing Through Books with Read Across America Week Activities

Reading challenges are a fantastic way to inspire young readers, foster a love for books, and connect families through shared literacy activities. As Read Across America Week approaches, we wanted to share an engaging reading challenge to spark curiosity and growth—both geographically and emotionally. There are ways for our classrooms and libraries to engage in Read Across America Week activities so students will be excited to read and see how their reading encourages everyone to grow together.

Challenge #1 – The Reading Garden. For Early Learners through 2^nd Grade

Designed for our early learners and beginner readers, this challenge can be done with parents or as a classroom activity. The worksheet encourages children to pick characters and settings from popular books and bring them together in their own stories set in a garden.

View details and download worksheet

Challenge #2 – Read and Grow Across America. 3^rd – 8^th Grades

This unique challenge invites children to explore different parts of the country and learn about people and places beyond their own experiences. By immersing themselves in stories set in different parts of the United States or written by authors from other places, they can discover new cultures, build connections with others, and see beyond their horizons.

View details, Google Slides and download worksheet

The Benefits of Reading Challenges

Reading programs like this one not only make literacy fun but also tackle real-world barriers to access to books. By incorporating engaging reading activities into school and home settings, we help overcome reading challenges and foster lifelong learning.

Parents can turn this challenge into meaningful family literacy activities by discussing books together, creating maps of their own, or reading aloud at home. Schools can incorporate it into their literacy programs for elementary students, using it as a way to encourage collaboration and celebrate accomplishments during Read Across America Week.

Why It Matters

Reading challenges do more than fill up bookshelves—they plant the seeds for future learning. Whether it’s through a Book Blast, school-based reading program, or family literacy activity at home, these initiatives show children the joy of stories and the power of understanding others. By promoting access to books and creating opportunities for growth, we’re helping kids become thoughtful, informed, and compassionate readers through Read Across America Week activities.

So this Read Across America Week, grab a book and join the “Read and Grow Across America” challenge. Together, let’s grow the next generation of readers, one story at a time.