How to Keep Your Child's Reading Skills Strong this Summer

Summer is made for fun, family time, and a break from the school routine, but it doesn’t have to mean a break from reading.

At National Heritage Academies (NHA^®), we know that when kids stay engaged with books over the summer, they build confidence and maintain the skills they’ve worked hard to develop. NHA Reading Specialist Holly Bigos says making reading a fun part of your child’s summer can help them stay sharp and start the new school year strong.

“Talk about what you are reading. If you are reading a picture book together, talk about the characters and experiences as you read. If your child is reading on their own, ask them about what they’re reading. Just sharing the experience with your kids can truly foster a love of reading. Keep it consistent. Reading for a just few minutes each day can make a big difference!”

Bigos has some creative ways to make reading fun for your child this summer!

• Encourage choice: let kids pick the books they want to read!
• Go with a theme: For example, are you going to the beach? Find some ocean-related books!
• Make reading part of a daily habit: Choose to read at the same time each day to make it consistent (after lunch, before bedtime, etc.)
• Visit the local library as a family.
• Get into a series together: ask your local librarian for some recommendations that would be age-appropriate and fun!
• Read with them: if they’re in elementary school, “share the load” where you take turns doing the reading. If middle school or older, ask them about what they’re reading. Talk about it

At National Heritage Academies, we know that strong reading habits build a strong academic future. That’s why the NHA curriculum offers support for every student’s learning journey during the school year and beyond.

Whether it’s creating custom reading plans, offering literacy resources, or working with parents to boost at-home learning, NHA is proud to be a partner in your child’s reading success.