No Books, No Play: How a Summer Reading Rule Turned into My Own Personal Reading Challenge

Summer break is almost here—or already here for some of us… YAY!!! For your students, that means no homework, no alarms, just sunshine, fun, and probably hours of video games and tablet time… yikes! But while summer should be fun, it’s also when the “summer slide” can sneak in causing kids to lose valuable reading and learning skills. That’s why it’s the perfect time to keep them reading and help them stay sharp for the upcoming school year.

When I was growing up, summer meant riding bikes, climbing trees, and staying out until the streetlights came on with no tablets in sight. But every summer, my parents had one rule: we couldn’t go outside and play with our friends until we’d read a chapter from a book and told them what it was about. Before the school year started again, we even had to write a short book report. At first, it felt like a chore, but looking back, I realize that rule was actually a gift. It helped me discover books I loved and kept my reading, comprehension, and writing skills sharp. 

One summer, I got hooked on the American Girl series. Samantha, Kit, and Addy took me on incredible journeys through history. Addy’s courage during slavery especially stayed with me. Those books didn’t just pass the time; they transported me to different worlds and made me fall in love with reading. Looking back, I realize my parents gave me a built-in summer reading challenge each summer, and it worked. 

Why Summer Reading Is Your Secret Weapon Against Learning Loss

Not long ago, I came across a report that really made me stop and think:  Reading scores have hit a record low nationwide*, with too many students struggling to reach basic reading levels. (edweek article) 
 
As a parent of a young child who is just starting school, that statistic is definitely concerning. With summer right around the corner, how can we make sure reading is a part of kids' everyday routine and keep their minds active and ready for the new school year? 

This is why I love the Book Blast mission. It’s all about ensuring that students go home with at least one book to add to their personal library, especially during the summer when the “summer slide” can really set in. Just 20 minutes of reading a day can make a big difference by boosting vocabulary, improving comprehension, and helping kids avoid the dreaded summer slide (MEK Review, 2023) 

Summer Reading Challenge 

Even though I appreciated my parents' approach (and may use it myself someday), there are so many other great ways to build healthy reading habits over the summer. Reading challenges and games can be a fun, low-pressure way to keep kids engaged, and at Books Are Fun, we’ve created a fun starting point! 

The Level Up Summer Reading Challenge makes reading enjoyable and easy. Here’s how it works: 

• Students pick books they enjoy 
• Read at their own pace 
• Track their reading progress 
• Share their journey with friends and family 

One Chapter at a Time 

Every book opened this summer is a chance to grow. Whether it’s Samantha, Kit, and Addy or a favorite graphic novel, let’s help kids rediscover the joy of reading one chapter at a time.  

At Books Are Fun, we’re all about getting books into kids’ hands—because every child deserves to fall in love with reading. Let’s team up! [Book a call] to learn how we can partner with your school to spark a lifelong love of reading.

Prevent Summer Learning Loss Today

At Books Are Fun, we’re obsessed with getting books into kids’ hands—because every child deserves to fall in love with reading. Let’s team up! Book a call to learn how we can help your school fight the summer slide with free books, challenges, and more.