I've been investigating summer reading programs to help my daughter maintain and even develop her literacy skills during the next few months. I've already mentioned the Scholastic Summer Challenge, which is my favorite. But here are several more for you to choose from (or why don't you do them all?)
Summer Break with BOOK IT! - Yesterday, I shared with you information on the Pizza Hut BOOK IT! reading program that runs during the school year. But they also have a great summer reading program and an excellent website with lots of printables (I've already downloaded most of them!) for teachers and parents. They've even got recipes to go with book suggestions! And the best part? Kids in K - 6th who read 5 books or more this summer can enter to win fabulous prizes. They even have an entry form in Spanish!
Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program - Kids earn a free book when they read any eight (8) books and record them in a reading journal downloadable at the Barnes & Noble website. Children must choose their free book from a selection of approved titles, but some are available in Spanish. I was especially delighted to see that their reading journal (which you can download from their website) is also available in Spanish. They also offer a free Parent Activity Kit and and Educator Kit. In addition, parents' can enter to win a Nook Color for their family with the submission of one completed journal! Feed Your Brain Summer Reading Program (from Half Price Books) - Kids 14 and under keep track of their time spent reading this summer, and those who read 600 minutes or more will receive a $5 Back-to-School Bucks summer reading reward! Readers are divided into age groups and the top reader from each group will receive a $20 HPB Gift Card. English only registration form (Boo!). At least you can spend your gift card on some bilingual books if they have any in stock!
Borders' Double-Dog Dare - Children 12 and under who read 10 books this summer, get one book free from Borders. Children must print off and fill out the official form from the Borders' website, and then submit the completed form to any of their stores (Borders, Borders Express, Waldenbooks). Again, your child has to choose their free book from a selection of 10 titles - none of which are bilingual or bicultural in nature. And they do not offer the official form in Spanish. Come on, Borders! This is the 21st Century!
Con mucho cariño...
