When the school year ends, kids deserve a break—but their brains don’t benefit from taking the whole summer off. In fact, research consistently shows that children who don’t read over the summer can lose some of the progress they made during the school year. This is often called the “summer slide,” and it can make the transition back to school harder than it needs to be.
Just like riding a bike or playing a sport, reading is a skill that improves with practice. When kids continue to read over the summer, they maintain (and often strengthen) their vocabulary, comprehension, and fluency. Even 15–20 minutes a day helps keep those skills fresh, so they’re ready to jump back in when school starts again.
Kids who read regularly over the summer often return to school feeling more confident. Instead of struggling to remember how to decode words or follow a story, they can focus on learning new ideas. That confidence can set the tone for a successful school year.
Summer is actually the perfect time to help kids discover that reading isn’t just “school work.” Without tests, book reports, or assignments attached, kids can choose what they want to read—graphic novels, joke books, magazines, audiobooks, or even cookbooks. When kids get to follow their interests, reading becomes something they enjoy, not something they have to do.
This summer at NCPL, we are having a Summer Reading Challenge! The Challenge kicks off on May 26, and all reading minutes must be turned in by July 24. As always, we have fun rewards along the way. You will also earn tickets for our grand prize drawing that will take place on July 27.
We have a summer filled with exciting programs! A carnival, book clubs, animal shows, cooking, music, painting, magic, a foam party, and much more. Check out the special addition of the Library’s Monthly Snapshot, where you will find all of the details.
Summer should be filled with sunshine, play, and relaxation—but a little reading each day can go a long way. By making reading part of the summer routine, you’re helping kids hold on to what they’ve learned, grow their confidence, and discover the joy of stories that last far beyond the season.