Regardless of a student’s reading level, here are simple and meaningful tips to make reading more enjoyable for kids during their summer break to help keep them from feeling the struggle when back-to-school season arrives. 

Summer is the perfect time to let students choose their own reading adventures. Offer a variety of genres like graphic novels, biographies, and fantasy to keep things exciting. Even 20 minutes a day can prevent summer learning loss and build reading confidence. 

Here are my top reading tips to keep kids of all ages turning pages and loving it: 

1. Familiar 
· Encourage repetition with favorite picture books. 

· Explore reading aloud together. Voices and sound effects are welcome! 

· Introduce simple books with rhymes or patterns to build confidence. 

2. 1st Grade: Let Them Choose! 
· Offer a mix of early readers and picture books.  

· Let them pick books based on interests, even if it's just dinosaurs all summer. 

· Try reading one page, then letting them read the next. 

3. 2nd Grade: Try Chapter Books with Pictures 
· Explore beginner chapter books (like Magic Tree House or Judy Moody). 

· Mix in nonfiction titles about animals, space, or sports. 

· Encourage a “reading spot” in the house, somewhere cozy and quiet. 

4.  3rd Grade: Introduce New Genres 
· Graphic novels are huge at this age, think Dog Man or Amulet. 

· Suggest fantasy or mystery books to spark imagination. 

· Have them write a few sentences about what they read—just for fun! 

5.  4th Grade: Think Bigger Topics 
· Recommend biographies or adventure stories (Who Was? The series is a hit). 

· Use reading to spark family conversations—ask open-ended questions. 

· Try audiobooks for long car rides or quiet afternoons. 

6.  5th Grade: Connect Reading to Real Life 
· Encourage historical fiction or science-themed books. 

· Let them browse and borrow from your local library’s summer list. 

· Pair books with activities. Example: Read about cooking, then try a recipe! 

7.  All Grades: Make It a Habit, Not a Homework 
· Set aside 20 minutes a day for reading at the same time and same place. 

· Model the habit—read alongside them or ask what they’re reading. 

· Mix formats: paperbacks, eBooks, audiobooks—whatever keeps them excited. 

Reading Apps to Try this Summer 

1. Epic!
A digital library for kids 12 and under with thousands of books and read-to-me options. 

2. Libby
Connects to your local library card and gives access to free eBooks and audiobooks. 
 
3. Bookful
Uses augmented reality to bring stories to life—perfect for early readers and visual learners. 

4. Audible
Great for family car rides or winding down before bed with audiobooks for all ages.

Inspired by the quote, “Be the change you want to see in the world,” I recommend Orbiting Jupiter by Gary D. Schmidt to help students build empathy and perspective. 

Hannah Munford, a Special Education Teacher and National Honor Society Advisor based in Vancouver, Washington, brought her educational journey full circle from starting out as a proud Insight School of Washington graduate. Known for her authenticity and ability to connect deeply with students, Hannah stands out for the relationships she builds in and out of the classroom. Former Creative Writing teacher and now colleague, Andrea Teske, credits Hannah’s approachable nature and honesty for the strong rapport she has with students. Likewise, former NHS advisor, Debi Ronholt, highlights Heather’s dedication to truly understanding each student and helping them navigate challenges together.