Let’s Make Reading Magic: A Summer Challenge for Little Bookworms...Why Literacy Rocks in Preschool and How You Can Join the Fun at Home!

Dr. Deb Zupito

Grab your sunglasses and a stack of books because the summer of reading has arrived! If you have a preschooler at home or a child up to age seven, there’s no better way to spark their imagination than diving into the world of stories. Let’s talk about why early literacy is amazing and how your family can get in on this year’s summer reading challenge.

Why Literacy Matters in Preschool

Preschool is more than just playtime and finger painting. It’s the perfect time to build a foundation for lifelong learning. When little ones listen to stories, turn pages, and giggle at silly rhymes, their brains are busy making connections. Reading together helps your child develop language skills, understand emotions, and boost their creativity. Plus, sharing a book is a wonderful way to snuggle and bond.

Benefits of Early Reading

·      Builds vocabulary and helps kids express themselves

·      Improves concentration and listening skills

·      Sparks curiosity and imagination

·      Prepares children for school and future adventures

·      Creates special memories with family and friends

Say Hello to the Summer Reading Challenge

Are you ready to take on a summer adventure without leaving your living room or backyard? The Summer Reading Challenge is here! The goal is easy and lots of fun. Each week, set aside time to read together. You can explore jungles, sail the seas, or zoom off to the moon without ever packing a bag. Keep track of your reading with a homemade chart or a colorful sticker sheet. At the end of summer, celebrate with a mini book party or a trip to your local library.

Reading Challenge Ideas to Get Started

·      Pick a new theme every week, like animals, space, or fairy tales

·      Let your child choose books that catch their eye

·      Act out stories with silly voices and costumes

·      Draw pictures of your favorite scenes or characters

·      Visit the library for storytime events and book scavenger hunts

Great Book Resources for Preschool to Age Seven

Not sure where to find books that your child will love? Here are some favorite sources and classic choices for little readers

·      Public libraries are treasure troves of picture books and beginner readers

·      Online storytime videos let your child listen to books read aloud by authors and celebrities

·      Book subscription boxes bring new stories right to your doorstep each month

·      Local bookstores often have special recommendations for kids

Looking for specific titles? Here are a few crowd-pleasers

·      Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems

·      Brown Bear Brown Bear What Do You See by Bill Martin Jr and Eric Carle

·      Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

·      The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

·      Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney

·      Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin

·      Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

Let's Make This Summer Unforgettable

Every story is a new adventure waiting to be discovered. By making reading a daily habit, you give your child a gift that lasts a lifetime. Join the summer reading challenge, explore new stories, and watch your little one’s love for books blossom under the summer sun. Happy reading!