Keep the pages flipping even after school’s out. These summer reading programs are bound to keep kids and teens enthralled until August. –Laura Wingfield
Some kids will pick up a book as soon as the last bell rings for summer and read it with fervor. Others need a bit more incentive—thus the dawn of the summer reading program. Northern Virginia libraries are keeping the stakes high this year, offering raffle prizes from a Kindle Fire HD6 to a camping trip at Cunningham Falls and packing their calendars with activities. These are our picks for the summer reading programs most likely to keep your kids’ noses in a book.
A-to-Z Reading
Kids and teens complete an A-to-Z list of activities to earn points through any of the Prince William County public libraries, and they get points for “A” just by signing up online or at their local branch. The program does require reading at least 100 pages, but participants can earn a “K” by learning “hello” and “thank you” in a foreign language or a “T” by attending a community concert. Prizes are based on points and include locker magnets, book bags and the chance to win a Kindle Fire HD6. Registration is rolling. Program ends Aug. 22.
Read to the Rhythm
Make sure your kids get their fill of music and literature this summer. Participants who sign up for the county reading program online or at their local branch will earn a book of coupons by completing books or attending events hosted by the library. There are activities for kids in kindergarten through high school. Kids can enjoy concerts by Uno, Dos, Tres con Andres, Rocknoceros and more at their local Fairfax Public Library branches. There are also events for the artists in the family, including papier-mache workshops, balloon sculpting and tree painting. Registration is rolling. Program ends Sept. 5.
Unmask Teen Reading Challenge
Aspiring authors ages 12 to 18 can sign up at their local Alexandria Public Library branch for this reading and writing program. Teens have the opportunity to attend a writing workshop on July 11 and can submit a short fiction or autobiographical piece by July 31 for the chance to win up to $100 in VISA gift cards. Reading five or more books enters participants in a raffle for $50 gift cards. Alexandria also has SummerQuest programs for kids ages 0-5 and 6-12. To be eligible for prizes, register before July 31. Program runs through August.
Every Hero Has a Story
If comic books are your child’s choice genre, the superhero-themed program at Fauquier County Public Libraries is the perfect fit. Participants can sign up online or at their local branch, log books online as they read and spin a prize wheel for fun rewards. Kids under 12 should be sure to attend a Rainbow Company performance of “The Sword in the Stone” or the inspiring “I’m a Hero Too” concert, while teens are eligible to participate in Be Your Own Hero classes including self-defense and babysitting/first aid. Registration is rolling. Finale is Aug. 4 for teens and Aug. 8 for kids.
Reading for a Cause
The Arlington Public Libraries have teamed up with the Gulf Branch Nature Center, children’s musician Groovy Nate and kid-friendly comedian Uncle Ty-Rone to provide activities for young readers who log their summer books online through the Reading to the Rhythm program. Teens can get involved with bring-your-own-instrument jam sessions, Sharpie tie dying and a cupcake decorating challenge. This summer reading program is not just fun, it’s philanthropic. The Friends of the Arlington Public Library have pledged to donate $1 per participant to The Reading Connection, an organization devoted to sustaining literacy-rich environments for at-risk children. Registration is rolling. Program ends Aug. 25 for teens and Sept. 12 for kids.
(July 2015)