I think summer is one of the best times of year for parents. There’s nothing quite like going on a family vacation, gathering for barbecues by the pool, stretching bedtimes later than usual, enjoying beach days—when it’s not raining of course—and let’s not forget —NO HOMEWORK! But amongst all this fun, it can be easy to let our reading habits slip. That’s where PJ Library comes in.
PJ Library is a fantastic non-profit that sends 240,000 free high-quality books to children across North America each month. They’ve shared some handy tips with us to seamlessly integrate reading into your summer activities. Because if you’ve happened to read the #1 New York Times Bestseller, The Anxious Generation, then you know how important a “non-phone based childhood” is. It’s time to put your devices down and…
1. Take Books With You
Whether you’re heading to the beach, jetting off on a vacation, or simply going to the park, always have a book handy. Slip them into your beach bag, carry-on, or stroller. Encourage your kids to take a break from the sun and enjoy a book in the shade. Make picking out a special “vacation read” a part of your travel preparations to add some excitement to the journey.
2. Read Aloud Together
Reading aloud isn’t just for bedtime. Studies show that children benefit immensely from being read to, no matter their age. Use silly voices, take turns, and answer your child’s questions as they arise. This not only makes reading fun, but also boosts vocabulary and fosters a love for storytelling.
3. Go to the Library
Beat the heat with a trip to the Boca Raton Public Library! If your child is old enough, let them sign up for their very own library card. Encourage them to explore different media, including books, CDs, DVDs, and games. And, don’t discount the Libby app! If you have a Kindle Paperwhite (the only reading device this mom approves of), you can reserve and download e-books for free with your local library card.
4. Let Your Kids Choose
Give your children the freedom to choose what they want to read. While school-assigned reading lists are important, try to balance them with free-choice materials. Don’t shy away from unconventional options like magazines or graphic novels—the goal is to keep them engaged and on the page!
5. Make it Social
Join Boca’s Summer Reading program or a children’s book group. This not only encourages reading but also helps your kids make new friends and plan fun playdates centered around books.
6. Have a Reading Picnic
Combine the joys of picnicking and reading. Grab a blanket, invite some friends, pack some snacks, and bring along a stack of favorite books. Find a pleasant spot in the shade and take turns reading aloud while enjoying your treats. Don’t forget your sunscreen, water and bug spray!
7. Make “Story Stones”
Collect stones from your backyard, during a nature walk, or a beach trip. Decorate them with paint, stickers, or markers. Mix them up and use the stones to inspire stories. Each player can draw one stone and build on the story together, or a solo player can draw several stones to create an improvised tale.
8. Keep Count
Keep a Summer Reading Journal to log and rate all the books read over the summer and offer a prize to the child with the most pages read by the first day of school. Display it on the refrigerator to keep your kids engaged and excited about their reading accomplishments.
With these tips (thanks again to PJ Library!), integrating reading into your summer routine has never been easier or more enjoyable. So, grab a book, find a cozy spot, and let your family’s summer reading adventures begin!
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