Fun Summer Reading Challenges for Kids

With extra time on their hands, summer break is the perfect opportunity to kick-start your child’s next reading adventure and build a reading routine ahead of the school year. 

This summer’s reading challenges will encourage kids to expand their learning horizons this season and beyond. Packed with fresh new ideas for summer reading fun, your child will be inspired by the limitless wonder found in books. Variety is key to encouraging reader engagement — for young readers, reluctant readers, and avid readers alike! 

This reading challenge consists of 10 badges for children to color in as they complete each reading goal. With fun-filled stories to read on-the-go and bright new books to enjoy under the sun, who says summer reading has to feel like a chore? 

Download and print out our ultimate summer reading challenge here! (You can also download a poster-sized engineering print version.) Explore our top book recommendations for each challenge below and more summer books at The Scholastic Store. 

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1. Read a book set in a different country.

No plane ticket required! Explore new worlds with truly transporting titles full of travel, fantasy, and adventure.

2. Read the first book of a new series.

Help your reader find their next favorite with series starter collections and boxed sets.

3. Read a book while traveling or on-the-go.

Bound for the beach or a backyard adventure, we’ve got you covered with captivating books to bring wherever summer takes you. Learn more screen-free ways to entertain kids while traveling this summer. 

4. Read a book under the summer sun. 

Reading in the great outdoors is the perfect way to celebrate all that summer has to offer. Discover fun-filled books to enjoy in the sun — or shade!

5. Read a book that features your favorite character.

Book characters are key to helping readers relate and connect to a story. Find your child’s favorite book series and characters and keep them flipping pages all summer long!

6. Read a book that makes you laugh. 

Funny books can promote love of reading by providing a positive and uplifting interaction that encourages regular reading habits. Foster the joy of reading this summer with humorous stories!

7. Read a book by a new-to-you author.

Variety is key to encouraging reader engagement. To introduce your child to a new author, check out the latest books of the month — and inspire your reader by the limitless wonder found in books!

8. Read a book to your friends or family.

This summer, encourage your child to read aloud a book during storytime! Discover read-aloud favorites for the whole family — from classic stories and award-winning books to best sellers and most-loved picture books.

9. Read a book about animals.

From captivating series about real-life creatures to sweet stories featuring charming dog characters, readers will delight in books about animals!

10. Read a book about an epic adventure.

Keep your reader flipping pages with thrilling adventure books and epic summer stories.