As temperatures rise and days grow longer, keeping learning in the forefront can be a difficult task. Summer Reading Programs are the perfect solution. Not only do they keep kids entertained, but studies show reading during the summer can help students of all ages retain the progress they’ve made during the school year. 

There’s plenty of great programs out there, locally and nationally, and each one is a little bit different, offering activities for kids and the whole family. The choices can be overwhelming, but if you’re looking for a place to start, look no further. 

Here are our favorite summer reading programs and challenges going on this summer.

Finding an engaging, reading-level appropriate book can often be the hardest part of summer reading. This challenge, recommended by the Nebraska Department of Education, offers a free, research-based tool that helps students create a list of books tailored to their reading level and interests and then locates copies at nearby bookstores and libraries

This state-wide program through Nebraska’s public libraries hosts events for all ages and offers prize packs catered to each age group. Kids, teens, and adults alike can compete to win prizes, participate in book clubs, and get involved in camps and workshops.

Half-Price Books rewards students with ​“Bookworm Bucks” for their reading minutes to redeem on future reads. They also provide suggested reading lists for various age groups and printable resources for tracking and enhancing summer reading.

Scholastic Summer Read-a-Palooza doesn’t just get kids engaged with reading; it offers them a way to give back. As kids log reading minutes, Scholastic pledges books to those in need across the nation. Families can help out even more by donating used books to participating locations.

In conjunction with Summer Reading programs, PBS offers a collection of educational videos and activities to help kids get the most out of their summer reads.

First, choose a topic your kid is interested in, then receive book recommendations within that topic, and, finally, dive into a collection of activities, writing prompts, and websites to keep the learning going. Start with a Book has it all, right at your fingertips!

Book It! is designed for the classroom, but has resources for parents and teachers alike. Students set their own goals and are rewarded with recognition, praise, and Pizza Hut pizza.