School’s out for summer! The holidays can be a great time for children and young people to discover how, where, and when they like to read. Read on for Kate’s tips for keeping the kids reading this summer.

Evidence shows that six elements can help children build their reading superpower…

Being read to regularly

• Audiobooks are easy to listen to on the move, at the beach, or on a walk – alone or with friends. Find free audiobooks on our World of Stories hub and on free library apps such as Libby and BorrowBox. You can find a huge range of audiobooks from our official audio partner, Yoto, via the Yoto App.
• Not sure what to read? Browse book lists for every age group, starting with sizzling summer reads.

Having books at home and at school

• Libraries and bookshops are a fantastic way to access and discover books. Find your local library or bookshop to see what they have to offer, including events over the summer. Explore free audiobooks on apps such as Libby and BorrowBox, or on our World of Stories hub.
• The Reading Agency’s Summer Reading Challenge is back! Children can find free activities and reading challenges to help them discover storytelling and the arts, from junk modelling to painting, dance and music.
• Enjoy brilliant video stories and activities for little ones in our Share a Story Corner hub and YouTube channel, from Dear Zoo to Ruby’s Worry.

Having a choice in what to read

• We asked children when reading is best. They said: when they can choose WHAT to read (47%), WHEN (42%) and WHERE (37%).
• Download the Read What I Need template to help children decide what to read.

Finding time to read

• Download Pawprint’s Time to Read resource to help children make five minutes of reading time every day with a homemade clock tracker.
• Audiobooks are a great way to combine reading with travelling and other hobbies!

Having trusted help to find a book

• Download this children’s guide to choosing a book from Love to Read for strategies children can use.
• Ask your local librarian or bookshop for personal recommendations to help you find a great book.

Making reading FUN!

• Like a challenge? Try the Summer Reading Challenge (details above).
• Bring friends into the mix by helping your child start their own book club. Find everything you need in our book club hub.
• Read a book somewhere new – on the beach, in the park or in a tent! Watch our 2024 £1/€1.50 authors talk about their favourite places to read.
• Keep an eye on our competitions page for exciting bookish prizes.

From the team at World Book Day, have a great summer and happy reading!