As moms, we all want to keep our kids excited about reading all year long — not just during the school year! Luckily, there are tons of free or low-cost reading programs that reward kids with fun prizes, free books, and even pizza for hitting their reading goals. Whether you’re looking for summer programs to keep your kids busy during the break or year-round challenges to build lifelong reading habits, this guide has you covered.
Top Summer Reading Programs to Keep Kids Reading
1. Barnes & Noble Summer Reading
Kids in grades 1–6 read 8 books, fill out a reading journal, and earn a free book! It’s a classic that encourages kids to explore new stories while earning a tangible reward.
2. Pizza Hut BOOK IT!
Designed for PreK through 6th grade, this popular program lets kids earn a free Personal Pan Pizza each month by meeting reading goals. Parents or teachers track progress and set goals.
3. Books-A-Million Summer Reading Adventure
Read 4 books from their selected list and complete a journal to earn a free “Who Was” book. A great way to combine reading with history and biographies.
4. Chuck E. Cheese Reading Rewards
Read daily for 2 weeks, and kids get 10 free play points for arcade games and prizes. Fun for younger readers who love the games!
5. Nothing Bundt Cakes Reading Reward
Some locations reward kids who log their reading with a free Bundtlet — a sweet treat for a sweet achievement. Check your local bakery for participation.
6. Panda Express Reading Rewards
Read 5 books and earn a free kid’s meal at Panda Express. A tasty incentive to get kids turning pages.
7. Scholastic Summer Reading Home Base
An interactive, online summer reading program with digital tracking, games, and rewards — perfect for tech-savvy kids!
Year-Round Programs That Encourage Daily Reading
1. Pizza Hut BOOK IT! (Fall to Spring)
Besides summer, this program runs October through March, making it perfect for school year motivation.
2. Read 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
A fantastic initiative for parents of babies and toddlers to build early literacy skills by reading aloud. Many libraries support this with logs and rewards.
3. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Kids from birth to age 5 receive a free book every month mailed directly to their home in participating areas.
4. Epic!
A subscription app offering thousands of books and audiobooks for kids, with built-in tracking and rewards. Free for educators!
5. Reading Is Fundamental (RIF)
Offers free books, reading tips, and resources all year round to encourage literacy in communities across the U.S.
6. Local Library Programs
Many libraries host monthly reading challenges, book bingo cards, and storytime events throughout the year to keep kids engaged.
Tips for Making Reading Programs Work for Your Family
- Set a family reading goal: Make it a fun, shared challenge.
- Create a cozy reading nook: Encourage daily reading habits with a special space.
- Celebrate milestones: Use certificates, treats, or outings as rewards.
- Mix it up: Include audiobooks, graphic novels, and chapter books to keep interest high.
Printable Reading Trackers & Certificates for Your Kids
To help you stay organized and motivated, we’ve designed cute printable reading trackers for both summer and year-round programs. Grab them here and make reading a joyful, colorful part of your family’s routine!
Reading programs are a wonderful way to foster a love of books and learning, plus kids love the excitement of earning rewards. Which program will you try first this summer? Let us know in the comments!