if you have kids, you can't even get near summertime without hearing about your local library's summer reading program. of course, it will depend on your specific public library system, but most require that children read a certain number of books (10 for school-age children) within a specific time period during the summer. sign them up and return their completed book list by the end date (mid August).
there are all kinds of fun coupons and bookmarks - and usually a cute bag - that accompany the sign-up process. my favorite thing, though, is that the kids get a free book when they finish the program! last year, my kids participated in Harford County's summer reading program, but were disappointed that all their school friends went through Baltimore County (i'm not sure why it bothered them so much). so, this year, i signed them up for both. that means, 2 free books at the end.
of course, i happened to stop by Barnes and Noble this evening and was asked if i wanted to sign my child up for their summer reading program. the incentive? a free book upon completion, of course. so, i grabbed 4 blank forms...
recording their books on these forms gives my kids a sense of accomplishment during the summer... but this summer it will also land them 3 free books each. that's 12 new books in our house by the end of August.
i am sure there are lots of other reading incentive programs out there, as well as other fun free summer activities. (my bonus tip: free movies at regal cinemas!) do a quick check in your area and see what you can find. and then get back to me, so i can use it, too!!
we're going next week to sign up for the reading programs. love all of the fun free stuff. AMC theaters also do movies for $1 over the summer and the money goes to a children's charity. We just did one of the Regal movies yesterday--nice to have a nice cool place to go when it's hot besides the basement. :)
ReplyDeleteOur library has a summer reading program, but they are also hosting special events all summer. Last week, they had Kindersongs, which LUCY loved more than the other two (who were glued to my side). Lucy ran up to the front of the room where they were performing and wanted to get in on being the center of attention. That girl is not shy! I need to see what is going on in the nearby town because they are the hub for the library system (which is multi-county and GREAT for us rural folks).
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