Every teacher/mom (I’m both) wants their own children to continue learning, even throughout the summer months. And although “because mommy says so” might get them reading begrudgingly, offering incentives creates a little extra motivation – no mommy prompting needed! This teacher/mommy dropped a list to her little readers, and they chose which ones they want to tackle. More than that, they have aimed to register in several to double up on rewards from reading the same books (the same books that cover their school summer reading requirements).
Looking at my list, I was especially interested in the bank programs where they can earn money for reading and grades. The money’s not out of my pocket, so that’s fantastic! Give this list to your little readers and use it to encourage their summer reading (because we deserve a break!) You’re welcome!
Free books!
1- Barnes and Noble offers a free book for every 8 books read before August 31. Students must record the books in their Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Journal and return it to any Barnes and Noble location.
2- Amazon is giving K-8 students a free book for every 8 books read before September 10 in their Summer Reading Challenge.
3- Pottery Barn Kids has posted approved reading lists and students who accept their Summer Reading Challenge are expected to read 14 books from the list by August 26. Participants who complete the challenge earn a book and are entered to win a backpack full of books.
4- DOGOBooks asks kids to choose books after reading posted student reviews, and then come back and make their own reviews in their Summer Reading Program. The top 10 reviewers will win a book prize package; the next 25 top reviewers will win a $10 gift card!
Free money!
1- TD Bank is offering $10 in their Summer Reading Program to any student who reads 10 books before August 31. The student needs to establish a Young Savers Account (parents, you need to set this up) and must fill out a form with the completed books which can be delivered to any TD bank.
2- JusticeFederalCreditUnion will dish out $10 to any student who reads 10 books over the summer. Students must write a list of read books and present it to any Justice Federal branch. Money will be added to any new or existing Young Savers Account (parental assistance needed to open an account).
3- Cap Com Federal Credit Union is paying out up to $10 ($2 per book) to students in grades Kindergarten through 12 during the Cap Com Federal Credit Union Summer Reading Programs. They offer this program in the winter and fall as well- which could amount to a potential $30 a year! They don’t stop there, though. Students can present their end of the year report cards to earn up to $30 with their Great Grades reward program! What a great way for kids to earn money that doesn’t come out of parents pockets! Open a youth account and let your kids start learning that hard work pays off!
Free food!
Applebee’s Book Worm Reading Club – is cooking up a free kids meal for sizzling summer readers (ages 10 and under) who can read 10 books to fill out their “Bookworm Club” record card. Student can turn in their completed cards to cash in on a yummy kids meal when accompanied by a paying adult (NY, PA only).
– Jessica Kurtz-Cicalese
