5 free summer reading programs for 2026
In this blog post, we’re rounding up 5 summer reading programs for 2026 that children can participate in for FREE! Each summer reading program offers children the opportunity to earn prizes or books!
Why participate in a summer reading program?
Sadly, it’s common for many children to experience some sort of learning loss over the summer months- IF they haven’t participated in any reading or writing for weeks at a time. Just a few minutes of reading each day can add up to a lot of vocabulary development, oral language skills, comprehension, and fluency practice. You can help your child start the school year off with confidence by encouraging them to read consistently over the months of June, July, and August.
Summer reading programs that are offered through various companies and websites can change from year to year. Here are FIVE summer reading programs being offered in 2026. Use the links provided to check out each program’s details, rules, regulations, and participation guidelines. Each program is unique and some may involve a prior purchase or offer prizes for a limited time.
Pizza Hut: Book It! Summer Reading Program
Earn a free Personal Pan Pizza during the months of June, July, and August! Download the app to set a reading goal and track your progress. Read the full details on the Book It! website HERE. For those of us who are old enough to remember our own Book It days, it’s also so nostalgic!
BAM: Books a million reading adventure
Read four books from BAM’s Summer Reading Adventure list, fill out the reading log, and turn it in for a free prize! *While supplies last! Download the reading log and directions HERE.
Chuck E Cheese: read for play points!
Set and complete a reading goal. Have an adult fill out the printable certificate. Present it at checkout with any food order to receive 10 free Play Points!
Mensa for Kids’ Excellence in Reading Program
The Mensa for Kids Excellence in Reading Program is year-round! Select a book list from the site and keep track of your reading using their printable form. Earn a certificate and a FREE t-shirt! Learn about the Mensa for Kids program HERE!
Your Local Public Library’s Reading Program
Visit your local public library! Most public libraries offer a summer reading program for children. Many of these programs encourage children to read throughout the summer to earn free books and prizes!
Use Free Printables to keep skills fresh!
There are tons of FREE practice printables available right in our Miss DeCarbo TPT Shop and right here on our website shop! Simply download, print, and use them to practice valuable reading skills with your child over the summer months! Here are free downloads below. If you’re looking for a paid product that’s filled with reading passages that have a fun summer theme, check out our Summer Text Evidence Reading Passages!
Share Summer Reading Programs with families!
Whether you’re a teacher, reading coach, administrator, librarian, or school literacy advocate, it’s so important to share free reading programs with the families in our communities. You can sign up for my e-mail list and get this FREE 5 2026 Summer Reading Programs flier sent directly to your inbox as a thank you! The QR codes for each featured program is included on the flier. Attach it to newsletters, post it on your classroom website or app, print it to send home with students, and more!
Sign up below. Then, check your inbox for the FREE Flier!
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