Summer Reading Fun
Natalie Appleton
When you think of summer with the kids in your life, you might think of barbecues, Stampeding and the lake—but it’s also the perfect time to show how fun summer reading can be.
One of the comments we always hear from volunteers at the (now 20th) Calgary Reads Big Book Sale is how wonderful it is to see so many children and young families thrilled to be taking home so many books. When you think of all the adventures storybook characters get to have, it’s no wonder children and youth can’t wait to immerse themselves in their favourite tales.
Now that we’re (hopefully) past the rainy days of spring, we wanted to share a few ways to keep up the reading over summer with the children in your life and show them the many ways summer reading can be especially fun.
Summer Reading Tents
Readalouds can be so enchanting for children, and a great way to be introduced to new characters and voices. This year, United for Literacy is hosting its second summer of Reading Tents!
These free, drop-in events are open to the public and include a readaloud as well as the chance for kids to take home a book of their own. The idea is to keep young readers engaged over the break to help prevent learning loss.
United for Literacy is one of the Calgary Reads seed partners that was a recipient of Calgary Reads Big Book Sale proceeds in 2023. Last summer’s reading tents focused on readaldouds and book ownership for children in need and this year they’re opening some events to the public.
Monday, July 22 11am-1pm
Tuxedo corner playground
Tuxedo corner playground
Reading in the Wild
Did you hear about the outdoor read-a-thon hosted by WordFest and Calgary Public Library? Hundreds of people gathered in Memorial Park to put down their phones and pick up a book. ‘Reading in the Wild’ was a sight!
Inspired by this event, which is a growing trend, we wanted to encourage others to get together to read ‘in the wild’—whether that’s your favourite neighbourhood park or that café with the good pastries.
Reading at Little Red Reading House
Some days in the summer with kids, it can be hot or smoky or you just need some new scenery that’s not over-stimulating or overexpensive. We have four words: Little Red Reading House. This magical storybook house is filled with books to read and all kinds of kid-sized nooks and crannies for reading. Plus, each child gets to take a book home!
To book a visit, just head to their website, find a time that works for you and you’re set. Family visits are $20 and putting down phones to immerse in reading is recommended!
Little Red Reading House is another Calgary Reads Big Book Sale recipient playing a tremendous role in ensuring children have fun reading experiences and books of their own.
If you’re fortunate to spend some time with young people this summer, we hope you get to enjoy some special reading time together—and remember to save your books for next year’s Big Book Sale!
