Summer is the perfect time for children to discover the magic of stories, the thrill of learning something new, and the fun of earning rewards just for reading! Whether your child is an avid bookworm or needs a little encouragement to crack open a book, there are many programs designed to inspire and reward reading habits all summer long.
Summer Programs that Reward Young Readers:
Local Library Programs
Many local libraries offer summer reading programs with fun incentives such as stickers, certificates, or even free giveaways! These programs help kids stay motivated and build a love for reading throughout the summer months. Check with your neighborhood library for details about programs and how to sign up.
Pizza Hut BOOK IT! Reading Program
During the summer months of June, July, and August, kids in Pre-K through 6th grade can earn a free one-topping Personal Pan Pizza® by meeting reading goals set by their parent or caregiver. It’s a tasty way to keep kids motivated to read all summer long!
BOOK IT
Chuck E. Cheese Reading Reward Calendars
Chuck E. Cheese makes reading extra fun with printable reward calendars! Kids can track their reading time or books read, then bring their completed calendar to a Chuck E. Cheese location to receive 10 free play points.
CERTIFICATES
Barnes & Noble Reading Program
Kids in grades 1–6 can earn a free book by reading any eight books and recording their favorite part in a Reading Journal. Once completed, they can bring the journal to a participating Barnes & Noble store during July and August to select their free book!
SUMMER READING
Books-A-Million Summer Reading Adventure
This program invites kids to read four books from their selected list and complete a reading log to receive a free backpack! It's a great way to stay on track with summer learning and get a fun reward.
SUMMER PROGRAM
Half Price Books Summer Reading Camp
Half Price Books offers a reading log that allows kids to track their summer reading progress. By reading 15 minutes a day and completing the log, children can earn a $5 reward to spend at Half Price Books in July and August.
SUMMER CAMP
Braum’s Book Buddy Program
Braum’s Book Buddy is a free reading incentive program for children in 1st through 5th grade, designed to encourage reading during the school year. Teachers receive booklets and coupons to reward students who read six books. Each time a student meets the goal, they receive a coupon for a free Braum’s treat—up to six treats per school year! This program typically runs from October 1 through the end of the school year and must be coordinated through your child’s school, so check now to see if your school is participating for the coming year.
BOOK BUDDY
Rewarding good behavior—like consistent reading—is a powerful way to build lasting habits in children. By using these free and fun programs, you can create a positive environment that encourages reading, goal-setting, and good habits. Whether it's ice cream, a free book, or a game token, the reward is just the cherry on top of the joy of reading. So grab a book, log your pages, and dive into a summer full of stories, adventures, and sweet rewards. Happy reading!
*We recommend that parents and caregivers preview books to ensure they are developmentally appropriate and suitable for their child’s individual needs and sensitivities.
