Summer ‘Reading is So Delicious’

Why do kids need to read over the summer? It is simple. If kids don’t read, they may find themselves going down the “summer slide”—not the playground slide, but the loss of reading and learning skills that occur during the long break from school, explains Anna Koch, Library Services Manager for the San Mateo County Library. An effective way to combat “summer slide” is to read. 

The San Mateo County Library’s annual summer reading program is underway. This year’s theme is “Reading is so Delicious,” and the summer-long program encourages everyone to sign-up at their local branch to participate.

At the Half Moon Bay Library, children grades six and under can sign up at the library by picking up a log sheet to record 10 hours of reading time over the summer months before earning a prize. Seventh graders and up need to read three books and write three reviews in order to receive their prizes, which include pizza gift certificates, free books and more.

The summer reading program at the Half Moon Bay Library reminds families and caregivers that children and teens need ongoing opportunities to learn and practice essential skills during the summer months.

There are also summer weekly programs all summer long at the Half Moon Bay Library such as a cooking club, messy science projects and Teen Tuesdays to hone those literacy skills. Find more information here. 

Ink Spell Books at 500 Purissima St. in Half Moon Bay is hosting their summer reading program again this year. The deal is, read 10 books over your summer vacation and get a free $5 or under used book. One free book person and there’s no age limit to the challenge.

The San Mateo County Library also offers these tips for parents and other caregivers to encourage their children to read over the summer:

·         Give your kids the power of choice – kids say they are more likely to finish a book they have picked out themselves. Make a point to help your child find books that appeal to his or her interests.

·         Read every day. Whether kids read print books or ebooks, the more they read, the better readers they become, and the better readers they become, the more they enjoy reading. Map out at least 20 minutes each day for reading.

·         Make books accessible. Having books available is key to helping kids love to read.

·         Participate in a summer reading program.  Organizations and libraries throughout San Mateo County offer fun, exciting reading opportunities for children, youth, and families all summer long.