Summer Reading Tips Series: Tip #2 – Let Kids Choose Their Books

One of the most powerful ways to help your child enjoy reading this summer is surprisingly simple: let them choose what they read.

When children have the freedom to explore books that interest them, reading becomes less of a task and more of an adventure. Instead of feeling like a school assignment, it becomes something personal, fun, and meaningful.

Why Choice Matters in Reading

Giving children control over what they read increases motivation, builds confidence, and helps them discover what types of stories and subjects they truly enjoy.

When kids are invested in the book they’ve chosen—whether it’s a silly comic book, a chapter novel, or a fact-filled animal guide—they’re more likely to finish it and want to read more. That’s the goal!

What Counts as “Reading”? (Hint: Almost Everything!)

Don’t limit summer reading to just traditional chapter books. Reading can come in many forms:

• Graphic novels and comic books

• Joke books or riddle books

• Biographies and fact books

• Magazines for kids

• Audiobooks and eBooks

• How-to guides (drawing, building, crafts)

• Cookbooks, game instructions, or even menus!

If your child is reading and engaged, it counts. The goal is building literacy skills while fostering a love of reading.

How to Support Choice Without Pressure

• Visit the Library Often Give your child space to explore different sections and check out multiple books at once—even if they’re unsure what they’ll like. Let them try, taste, and return what doesn’t fit.

• Create a Book Buffet at Home Set out a small selection of books on a table or shelf and rotate them weekly. Give your child the joy of picking “what’s next” from a fun spread.

• Say Yes More Often Even if a book seems silly, below grade level, or something you wouldn’t choose—it’s okay. Independent reading is about confidence and joy, not perfection.

• Share Your Own Favorites Recommend books you loved as a child, but make it an invitation—not a requirement.

• Let Reading Be Private (Sometimes) Especially as kids grow older, they may want to enjoy books quietly or re-read favorites. Let them! Trust builds independence.

  
  

Make Reading Feel Personal

Let your child decorate a book bin, start a “books I loved” list, or share reviews with a friend or sibling. When reading feels like theirs, the motivation sticks.

Ready to let them choose? Take a trip to the library or set up a mini bookshop at home. Let your child lead—and watch the reading magic unfold.

Stay tuned for Tip #3: Visit the Library Weekly!