The Summer Reading Challenge is now in its 20th year. Run by The Reading Agency and supported by libraries across the UK it encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six books of their choice over their school summer break. Children's reading ability can take a dip over this time of year as reading, for many, may be forgotten.  

credit pixabay

The challenge helps keep three quarters of a million children reading - and so increases their reading ability and confidence.
There are special rewards for those who complete the scheme and each year there is a new theme. This year's theme is Space Chase:

"an out-of-this world adventure inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing. Children taking part in the Challenge will join our super space family, The Rockets, for a thrilling mission to track down books napped by mischievous aliens!  Space Chase will feature bespoke artwork from tip children's illustrator, Adam Stower, and will celebrate adventure, exploration, reading and fun!" (The Reading Agency). 

credit: pixabay artists

When my own three children were young I used to love our visits to the library and we joined in with the Summer Reading Challenge on several occasions, It's a great way to encourage a love for reading.

Reading not only helps children develop literacy and communication skills, it can also promote imagination, creativity, confidence, self knowledge and the discovery of the world in which we live.

So whether you're an author, parent, teacher, librarian or other let's encourage children to join in for lots of fun reading and adventure. Children choose whatever books they like and library staff will have lots of ideas and recommendations too.



Happy summer reading!
Hilary Hawkes- writer and children's author and Founder of  Story Therapy®







For more information (including about braille and large print click here to go through to The Reading Agency.