Summer starts with the best intentions... and then suddenly it’s week two, everyone is bored, and screens start winning.
I always mean to keep my kids reading over summer break, but it’s a lot easier when there’s a little motivation involved. These summer reading programs for kids make it fun, and even better, many offer free books, prizes, and rewards just for reading.
If you want an easy summer win — less boredom, more reading — This is the one thing that actually works for us š
Get Your FREE Summer Reading Challenge Bookmarks
These printable bookmarks turn reading into a fun challenge with prompts like: Read a mystery, a superhero story, or a book recommended by a friend.
It’s simple, fun, and gives them just enough structure without feeling like school.
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Download the FREE bookmarks →
Your Local Library
Your local library is still one of the best places to find free summer reading fun.
Libraries usually offer a wide range of summer programming for kids, and sometimes even adults too. These programs usually begin as soon as local schools start summer break, or very shortly after. Visit your library to find out about local programs your family can join.
Barnes & Noble
This summer, kids in grades 1-6 can earn a FREE book through the Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program.
Kids read any eight books and record them in their Summer Reading Journal. When they’re done, bring it to a Barnes & Noble store and choose a free book. Redeemable: July 1-August 31, 2026.
Pizza Hut BOOK IT!
During June, July, and August 2026 any child who meets their parent-set reading goals can earn a free Pizza Hut single-topping Personal Pan Pizza from participating locations.
Use the BOOK IT! Mobile App to set goals, track progress, and redeem rewards.
New York Times Summer Reading Contest
This one is a great fit for teens.
Teens can read The New York Times and answer the prompt, “What got your attention in The Times this week?” each week for 10 weeks beginning in June.
There will be free teen-friendly content available to anyone without a subscription. Entries are judged, and winning entries are published on The Learning Network. There are specific rules to follow, plus advice for creating a winning entry, so be sure to read the full details on their website.
Mensa for Kids Excellence in Reading Program
Looking for a more structured reading challenge? The Mensa for Kids Excellence in Reading Program encourages kids to read from grade-level book lists and earn recognition for completing an entire list. Kids who complete the program can earn a commemorative certificate and an Excellence in Reading T-shirt.
This program is open to readers under 18 and is a year-round program, so kids can keep reading even after summer ends.
To participate, kids choose a list, track the books they read by hand, and submit the completed list and order form to the Mensa Foundation.
More info and reading lists here.
Need some book suggestions? Check out this list:
Read Across America: 50 Kids' Books, One for Each State
Make Your Own Summer Reading Challenge
None of these a good fit for your family? Use our free printable bookmarks to make up your own challenge and prizes!
You can design your own bookmark with family reading goals or use one of our pre-made challenges and offer small weekly rewards, or let kids choose their own prize after finishing a certain number of books.
It’s simple, fun… and might just buy you a little less “I’m bored” this summer.
Love free printables and other ideas for creative fun for kids?
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