2026 Free Summer Reading Programs for Kids and more...

There are so many fun FREE Summer Reading Programs for Kids this year!

Updated for Summer 2026: New programs and rewards added!

These programs reward kids with free books, pizza, movie tickets, cash, and more just for reading.

If you’re anything like me, you want your kids to keep learning over the summer… but you also don’t want it to feel like school.

That’s why I love these programs. They make reading feel fun, motivating, and even a little exciting.

Below you’ll find the best free summer reading programs available this year, plus a few tips to help you choose the ones your kids will actually enjoy.

Quick List: Free Summer Reading Programs (2026)

• Barnes & Noble – Free book after reading 8 books
• Chuck E. Cheese – Free play points for reading
• Scholastic Summer Reading – Online reading rewards
• TD Bank – Earn $10 for reading 10 books
• Books-A-Million – Free Dog Man backpack (select years)
• Local Libraries – Prizes, events, and reading challenges

Once school is out for the summer, it’s easy for kids to lose the habit of reading.

Regular daily reading is essential for kids to hone their reading skills, especially during the slower days of summer, when they’re not in school and reading every day.

You’ll find it’s so much easier to encourage your kids to keep reading when they know they’re working for fun reading rewards.

I’ve gathered up all of the FREE Summer Reading Programs available this year.

Be sure to scroll all of the way down to find a list of More FREE Summer Programs for Kids.

Summer Reading Programs for Kids

If you like this, then you might also be interested in this list of Good Report Card Freebies. 

There are many great programs that your children can take advantage of to earn FREE books, prizes, and cash!

Need some kid’s book recommendations? Check out this Kids Summer Reading Book List for lots of great ideas for the best books for kids to read this summer, including books for all ages and all reading levels.

Barnes & Noble Book Your Summer

This summer reading program through Barnes & Noble gives your child the ability to earn a FREE book after reading books and keeping track of them in a reading log.

If your kids love picking out their own books, this one is always a favorite.

Kids read 8 books, write them down in a simple reading journal, and then get to choose a free book from a list at their local Barnes & Noble store.

I love this one because it’s easy to follow and doesn’t feel overwhelming. And letting kids choose their own reward makes it way more exciting.

Best for: Kids who love choosing their own books
Reward: Free book

Book Adventure

Sylvan offers this reading incentive program.

Basically, your child reads books and then takes a simple comprehension quiz to make sure they understand what they read.

The quiz is usually about 10 questions long.

They earn points based on how much they remember from reading the book.

There are hundreds of books to choose from in all reading levels.

These are common books that can be found at your local library.

Once they have earned enough points, they can trade them for some really neat prizes!

Books-A-Million Summer Reading Program

This program changes a little each year, but it usually includes a fun prize for kids who complete their reading log.

In past years, rewards have included things like backpacks or themed prizes, which kids get really excited about.

It’s another simple and easy program to add if you’re already out and about during the summer.

Best for: Kids who love fun prizes
Reward: Varies (often a themed prize)

Chuck E. Cheese

This one is perfect if your kids are motivated by fun (and maybe a little pizza 😄).

Kids track their reading and earn free play points at Chuck E. Cheese. It’s a simple reward system, but for the right kid, it’s very motivating.

If your child struggles to stay interested in reading, this can be a great way to turn it into something they look forward to.

Best for: Kids who need extra motivation
Reward: Free play points

Half Price Books

During the months of July and August, campers can visit their local HPB with their completed reading logs to receive $5 Bookworm Bucks

These are good for $5 off anything in store, so your booklovers can add even more great reads to their collection!

Best for: Kids who love bookstores
Reward: Store credit (Bookworm Bucks)

Local Public Library

Honestly, this is one of the best (and most overlooked) options.

Most local libraries offer summer reading programs with prizes, events, and activities, and they’re completely free.

Some even include:

• Story times
• Craft days
• Guest performers
• Bigger prize drawings

If you only choose one program this summer, this is the one I’d start with.

Best for: All ages
Reward: Varies (prizes, events, community fun)

My kids have participated in several Summer Reading Programs through the library, and it always includes FREE books & prizes.

Nothing Bundt Cakes (Select Locations)

While there isn’t a nationwide summer reading program, some local Nothing Bundt Cakes stores partner with schools and community programs to offer rewards for kids.

It’s worth checking with your local bakery to see if they’re participating in any summer promotions.

Panda Express Read With Me Program

Once enrolled in the program, teachers or homeschool parents receive paper bookmarks and awards.

When a student completes 5 books, the teacher or parent awards the student with a free kids meal coupon.

Pizza Hut Book It Program

BOOK IT! is a reading incentive program created by Pizza Hut in 1984. We empower teachers and parents to motivate their students to read by providing digital Reading Award Certificates®, good for a free, one-topping Personal Pan Pizza® from Pizza Hut®.

This program is free to schools and parents homeschooling their own children.

Who is eligible to participate?

• Teachers at accredited public, private, and charter schools who teach English Language Arts curriculum for PreK^* – 6th grade students (ages 4-12), and enroll individually for their classrooms using their school issued email
• Students may only participate through their primary classroom teacher and may only earn one certificate per month
• Parents homeschooling their own children may enroll in the BOOK IT! homeschool program
• *PreK requirements: School must be accredited and have an approved PreK curriculum. Eligible students must be age 4 by September 1st

Best for: Kids who love pizza rewards
Reward: Free personal pan pizza (varies)

Scholastic Summer Reading Challenge

This one is great if your kids enjoy using technology.

Kids log their reading online, earn digital rewards, and can participate in a global reading challenge. It adds a fun, interactive element that a lot of kids really enjoy.

It’s also nice because everything is tracked in one place, which makes it easy for parents.

Best for: Tech loving readers
Reward: Digital rewards + reading milestones

School Based Summer Reading Programs

Don’t forget to check your child’s school.

Many schools send home summer reading challenges or partner with local businesses to offer rewards.

Sometimes these are the easiest (and most motivating) programs because they feel familiar to kids.

Showcase Cinemas Bookworm Wednesdays

This one is such a fun option if your kids love movies.

Kids can earn free or discounted movie tickets by reading and participating in the program. It’s a great way to mix reading with a fun summer outing.

Best for: Kids who love experiences
Reward: Free or discounted movie tickets

Bookworm Wednesday Movie Schedule:

• To be announced…

Six Flags Read to Succeed

K-6 students who complete six hours of non-school-related reading approved by their parents and teachers are eligible for free admission to their nearest theme park.

(This one has been suspended temporarily)

TD Bank Summer Reading Program

If your child is motivated by earning money, this one is a big win.

Kids read 10 books and can earn $10 deposited into a TD Bank account.

It’s a simple concept, but it teaches a great lesson—reading has value, and consistency pays off.

Best for: Older kids or goal-driven readers
Reward: $10 deposit

Programs like these are a great way to encourage our children to continue reading throughout the summer months.

If you know of other programs that aren’t listed here, please feel free to leave the information in a comment below.

Bonus: Check Local Businesses

Don’t forget to check places like:

• Local bakeries (like Nothing Bundt Cakes)
• Ice cream shops
• Bookstores

A lot of small businesses quietly offer rewards for kids, you just have to ask!

How to Choose the Best Program for Your Child

If you’re not sure where to start:

• Pick one simple program (don’t overwhelm yourself)
• Choose something that matches your child’s personality
• Focus on making reading feel fun, not forced

Even one program can make a big difference.

Tips to Make Summer Reading Fun (Not a Battle)

• Let kids choose their own books
• Keep expectations small (10–15 minutes counts!)
• Pair reading with rewards or routines
• Read together sometimes

FAQ

You can find LOTS more Educational Freebies here!

    

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If you’re already a member, you could sign up someone else in your home to be the New Member and still take advantage of this freebie.

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These Mason Jars are microwavable and dishwasher safe, and are perfect for anything you need from food storage to DIY decor! Perfect for pickling or making your own viral pickle-salad recipe! 

These pint sized glass jars are the perfect vessel for jellies, jams, pickles, or even household trinkets!

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Spend a total of $13.44 or more at Walmart and get $13.44 in cash back.

How to get your FREE Ball Mason Jars:

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*There are several other options including Amazon, American Express, Target, etc. for how to receive your cash back also if you don’t want to use your bank or Paypal.

*Saving Dollars and Sense Tip: If you are already a member, you could sign up someone else in your home to be the New Member and still take advantage of this freebie.

    

If you’re looking for a simple but special way to start the day, this breakfast board (also sometimes called a breakfast charcuterie board) is one of my favorite go to ideas.

It’s perfect for Mother’s Day Brunch, birthdays, or even a slow Saturday morning at home.

You can keep it budget friendly, mix in store bought items, and still create something that looks beautiful and feels a little extra special.

The best part? Everyone can grab what they love and build their own plate.

How to Make a Breakfast Board (Quick Overview)

• Start with waffles or pancakes.
• Add pastries like croissants or muffins.
• Include fresh fruit for color.
• Add dips like cream cheese, jam, or chocolate spread.
• Fill in gaps and serve.

If you’ve ever made a charcuterie board, this is basically the breakfast version of that.

You’re just swapping in waffles, pastries, fruit, and a few sweet spreads. It’s super easy to put together, and it always looks way more impressive than the effort it takes.

Why You’ll Love This Breakfast Board

This is one of those “looks fancy but isn’t hard” kind of meals.

• Easy to put together in about 30 minutes.
• Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Flexible based on what you already have at home.
• Perfect for feeding a small group or family.

And let’s be honest… it just makes breakfast feel a little more fun.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Waffles

• Flour
• Sugar
• Baking Powder
• Salt
• Milk
• Egg
• Butter
• Vanilla Extract

For the Breakfast Board

• Mini Croissants (store bought works great!)
• Swiss roll (any flavor you love)
• Sugar Cookies (any shape or style)
• Cream Cheese
• Chocolate Spread (like Nutella)
• Jam (strawberry, raspberry, or whatever you have)
• Strawberries
• Blueberries

Optional Toppings

• Powdered sugar
• Honey
• Chopped nuts (like pecans)
• Fresh flowers (food safe)

How to Make a Breakfast Board

Full directions on how to make this simple Breakfast Board recipe are in the printable recipe card below. This is a quick walk through on how it is made.

How to Make the Waffles

1. Preheat your waffle maker.
2. In a bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and vanilla.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
5. Stir in the melted butter.
6. Cook in your waffle maker according to instructions until golden brown.

How to Build Your Breakfast Board

Step 1: Start by placing your waffles on a large serving board or platter.

Step 2: Arrange the croissants, Swiss rolls, and cookies around the waffles.

Step 3: Add small bowls for the cream cheese, chocolate spread, and jam.

Step 4: Fill in the empty spaces with fresh berries.

Step 5: Lightly dust everything with powdered sugar for that pretty finish.

Step 6: Drizzle honey over the fruit and cream cheese if you’d like.

Serve right away and enjoy!

Tips to Keep It Budget Friendly

• Use store brand pastries and spreads to save money
• Swap in pancakes or frozen waffles if that’s what you have
• Use whatever fruit is in season or on sale
• Skip extras and keep it simple. It will still look beautiful

This kind of breakfast board is perfect for those mornings when you want things to feel a little extra special without a lot of extra work.

Think Mother’s Day, birthday mornings, or even just a slow weekend when everyone is hanging out in pajamas.

It also works really well for holidays like Christmas or Easter when you want something pretty on the table but don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen all morning.

More Mother’s Day Brunch Ideas

If you’re putting together a full brunch, here are a few simple ideas you can add alongside your breakfast board:

• French Toast Casserole
• Egg Muffins
• Fresh Fruit Pizza
• Sourdough English Muffins
• Yogurt Fruit Dip
• Homemade Muffins
• Scones
• Lavender Red Roasted Potatoes
• Homemade Bagels

If you want more ideas, you can check out my full list of easy Mother’s Day brunch ideas here.

Make It Your Own

One of my favorite things about a breakfast board is how easy it is to customize.

• Add scrambled eggs or bacon for a heartier option.
• Swap sweets for more savory items.
• Use themed cookie cutters for different occasions.
• Change the fruit depending on the season.

This is one of those simple ideas that turns an ordinary morning into something special… without spending a lot of money or time.

Print

Breakfast Board

Fun breakfast charcuterie board idea that's perfect for a crowd.

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword cookies, waffles

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 903kcal

Author Kristie Sawicki

Ingredients

For the Waffles

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Accompaniments

• 2-3 mini croissants store-bought or homemade
• 4-6 slices Swiss roll preferably strawberry vanilla
• 4-6 heart-shaped sugar cookies or wholewheat sugar cookies
• 1 cup cream cheese softened
• 1/2 cup Nutella or any type of chocolate spread
• 1/2 cup red jam strawberry or raspberry
• 1 cup strawberries hulled and halved
• 1 cup blueberries

Optional Toppings

• Powdered Sugar
• Honey
• Pecans
• Edible Roses
• Sugar Flowers/Heart Jellies

Instructions

For the Waffles:

• Preheat the waffle maker.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
• In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth. Add the butter and stir again.
• Pour the batter into the preheated waffle maker and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Assemble the Board

• Place the waffles on a large serving board.
• Arrange the croissants around the waffles. Add the Swiss roll slices and the heart-shaped cookies.
• Add small bowls of cream cheese, Nutella, and red jam to the board.
• Spread berries around the croissants and waffles.
• Dust the waffles and croissants with powdered sugar and drizzle honey over the berries, and cream cheese.
• Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 903kcal | Carbohydrates: 110g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 45g | Saturated Fat: 30g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 138mg | Sodium: 650mg | Potassium: 497mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 61g | Vitamin A: 1308IU | Vitamin C: 29mg | Calcium: 250mg | Iron: 5mg

    

My favorite vacuum is on sale today, and I couldn’t wait to share this deal with you.

I picked this one up a few years ago during a holiday sale, and I’ve been so happy with it ever since. When I saw the price drop again today, I knew I had to pass it along.

Is the Shark Navigator Lift-Away worth it?

Yes, especially if you want a budget friendly vacuum that still has strong suction and real versatility. It works well on both carpets and hard floors, and the lift-away feature makes it super easy to clean stairs, furniture, and hard to reach spots.

This Shark Navigator Lift-Away is on sale for $98 shipped today!

Regularly priced at $149, you will be saving a lot with this special deal today.

This one is slightly different than the one that I got a few years ago now. But I’m sure it will work just as well as mine still does several years later.

I’ve had my Shark Navigator for several years now, and it’s honestly one of those purchases I’ve never regretted.

It still works just as well as when I first got it, and I love that I can use it on different types of flooring without switching machines. The suction is strong enough to actually pick things up the first time, which saves so much time.

What really makes it stand out for me is the lift away feature. Being able to detach the canister and carry it makes cleaning stairs and furniture so much easier than dragging a full vacuum around.

Here’s why I love it so much:

• It is super lightweight.
• You can remove the base which makes it super easy to carry around.
• Vacuuming stairs is no longer a huge chore for me.

It has a setting on it that allows you to use the vacuum with the brush roller turned off.

No more needing to wrestle with the vacuum when I am trying to vacuum an area rug.

Shark Navigator vs More Expensive Vacuums

If you’ve looked at brands like Dyson, you already know vacuums can get expensive fast.

The Shark Navigator is a great alternative because:

• It costs a fraction of the price
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For most homes, it does exactly what you need without overspending.

If you’ve been putting off buying a new vacuum because of the cost, this is a great time to grab one without overspending.

It’s one of those practical purchases that actually makes everyday life a little easier.

Grab your Shark vacuum on sale today almost half price here.

    

Get a Sam’s Club Membership for Only $30!

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Prefer Costco? No worries, I have a great deal on Costco memberships too!

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What’s Included:

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• Access to Sam’s Club gas stations
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Additional Notes:

• This offer is valid for new members only, or for those whose membership has been inactive for six months or more.
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