My kids are officially out of school, and the 2023 summer reading programs are underway! I’m not super strict about reading during the summer, because I also want my kids to go outside and play. Once they’ve read at least a half hour or so, it’s off to the next thing — which is why I appreciate that most of these programs are super simple and reward kids with free books to encourage more reading! Check out the 2023 summer reading programs for kids I’ve rounded up below.
Little Mama Shirt Shop reading challenge. This is the fifth year Chynna has done this challenge, and I’m glad she’s gone back to offering a tote as a reward. To participate, download the reading log, add a checkmark each time your kids read, and list your favorite books on the back. Email her a picture of the completed chart (200 books or chapters) by Sept. 15, and she’ll send you a coupon code for her shop and a free book tote. Chynna is an Idaho mom, so I love to support her shop and encourage reading, too.
Salt Lake County summer reading challenge. If you live around Salt Lake City, go to your nearest county library branch and pick up forms for your family to track their reading. Kids, teens, and adults can participate! Once you finish the form, return it to the library and get coupons for free or discounted admission to local museums and attractions. You’ll also get a free book for each person who participates. We complete this challenge every year, and my kids get excited to pick out a new book.
The City Library Super Summer Challenge. Yes, there are two separate library systems in Salt Lake City, which I love! This one is similar to the county challenge, with activities to complete before earning a free book, but you can download the activity tracker without visiting a branch. My good friend Emma works at one of the city library branches, so we like completing this challenge and visiting her.
Barnes & Noble summer reading journal. My kids have finished this program every year since first grade (children in grades 1-6 are eligible). It’s really simple: Have your children read just eight books and write the titles and what they liked best about them. Once they’re done, bring the completed paper to a Barnes & Noble store by Aug. 31 to pick out a free book from the list. The available books are updated each year, so there are different options your kids will enjoy.
Utah State Fair Read & Win program. Finally, this is our favorite challenge because we love the Utah State Fair. It’s open to kids in grades 1-6 as well. Have your children read 10 books, write down the titles, and mail the form (or submit it online) by July 17. They’ll get free admission to the Utah State Fair, a free big yellow slide ride (our FAVORITE), free carnival ride and fountain drink, and a ribbon bookmark. The other part that’s fun is that my kids get individual envelopes with their tickets and bookmarks. Since they rarely get mail, they get excited for this each summer.
This list is obviously Utah-heavy, but check your local library or library system for programs if you live elsewhere! You can also check out my previous list with national programs from Scholastic and Book-It. Please share any other 2023 summer reading programs with me in the comments!
