We love participating in Free Summer Reading Programs. The great incentives keep my kids in the books all summer long. Check out the list below of programs being offered for 2020. Please note; with these unprecedented times, some programs may have changed from previous years or not been updated yet. Please check your location for participation.
Here’s a tip – print out all the record sheets for the programs you are participating in and keep them all in one folder. Then you can record your child’s reading all at one time.
National Free Summer Reading Program Offers
Barnes & Noble’s Summer Reading: Kids in grades 1-6, fill out the Summer Reading Journal. Then turn in the completed form at a store and choose a free book from the list! Bring your completed journal to a Barnes & Noble store between July 1st and August 31st, 2020.
Chuck E Cheese: Your child can keep track of their reading through one of the rewards calendars. Once they have completed two weeks of reading he or she can submit the completed Chuck E Cheese calendar for 10 free tokens! (Lots of other great incentive/reward sheets available, now you must sign up to access “rewards”)
Half Price Books: Kids should read (or be read to) for at least 15 minutes a day during June and July. Share your weekly log by tagging @halfpricebooks and use the hashtag #FeedYourBrain for a chance to win prizes.
H.E.B. Summer Reading Club: When your kids read 10 or more books, they can submit a form and end up getting a cool prize (which includes a T-Shirt). Just fill out the form including the books your child has read (if your kids can’t read, you can just list the books you read to them) and mail to the address on the form!
Pizza Hut Summer Book-It Program. This program is an extension of the school year Book-It program. Participate in the Book It Summer challenge from June to August.
Rusty Bucket Bucketeer Bookworms: This program runs year-round, but a good reminder! Pick up a bookmark at Rusty Bucket, have your kiddo read 5 books (or have 5 read to them), and mark them on the bookmark. Then redeem for a free kids meal. See more details here (including the awesome no per adult limit!)
Scholastic’s Summer Challenge: Starting May 4th, kids can keep track of their reading by logging in to the site. In return, they will earn book donations. Scholastic Home Base is a free digital destination that offers full books, live events, and games. The 2020 program runs May 6th – Sept 4th.
Showcase Cinemas Bookworm Wednesdays (select locations): Each Wednesday, kids can bring in a book report (unless you are six and under and then admission will be free) – which will be cost of admission! NOTE: Site not updated for 2020 yet.
Six Flags Read to Succeed: K-6 students who complete six hours of non-school-related reading approved by their parents and teachers are eligible for free admission to their nearest theme park. (Thanks Saving Dollars and Sense) NOTE: offer not updated for 2020 yet.
TD Bank Summer Reading Program – Read and keep track of 10 books this summer and your child will get $10 added to their Young Saver Account FREE! Contact your branch for details and participation. NOTE: Site not updated for 2020 yet.
Local Libraries: Be sure to check with your local library to see what sort of summer reading program is offered. Many reward readers with great local coupons and raffles.
- Columbus Metro Libary Summer Reading Challenge here.
- Worthington Libraries Summer Reading Club here (love the coupon prizes for both these library systems)
Columbus peeps>> Chick-fil-A on Sawmill is offering a Summer Reading Offer too. Watch for details on the Chick-fil-A Sawmill Facebook page.NOTE: offer not updated for 2020 yet.
Looking for more Summer Fun for the Kiddos?!
Check out these ideas for Back Yard Summer Camp and more, because Summer is Not Canceled.
Check out my list of Summer Movie Programs too! (not yet updated for 2020 due to theatre closures)
This is AMAZING!!! Super helpful, thank you!
You are welcome Eryn! Really is helpful to keep the kiddos reading.
This is GREAT!! Thanks for sharing all these ideas!
Sure! Thanks for checking them out!
I am a teacher and was literally just looking for a list to give to my students!! This is perfect!! Thank you for sharing!!
Perfect! I think my fave is the Barnes & Noble for the Free book. And of course Rusty Bucket for free food. Rewards are great positive reinforcements (for parents and kids)- but you know that as a teacher! 😉
Dang! Now THAT is a list! Sharing with my other mom friends. That Chuck E Cheese one is soooo going to get my son reading extra!
The Chuck E Cheese’s one actually offers several different reward calendar options. Great for mamas looking for a little extra incentive for the kiddos.