Summer Reading and Projects

Summer is nearly upon us, and we are excited about all the memories we will make. Each year I grow more aware of how fast the precious years of childhood are flying by, and I am doing my best to make the most of them. 

Although every summer is a little different; sometimes we school through the summer, and other years we take the whole season off, this year we will continue working on literacy and math, while staying close to home. We will be starting The Precious People curriculum in September, so I'm excited for the opportunity to plan for our fall celebrations and learning.

We found some great summer themed books we wanted to share so you can make the most of this season with your children as well. We have even paired the books with easy activities to build sweet memories in your own family.

Swimmy by Leo Lionni

Activity: Find a body of water and look for minnows, or head to the ocean and see if you can spot a Swimmy in the tide pools.

The Longest Day: Celebrating the Summer Solstice by Wendy Pfeiffer

Activity: Find a map of the world and show your littles the different time zones. What time is the sun setting in Iceland? In India? Is there any sun in Antarctica in July?

Finding Wild by Megan Wagner Lloyd

Activity: Go on a scavenger hunt, make it a competition or an expedition.

The Night Before Summer Vacation by Natasha Wing

Activity: Find a trampoline or spread out some blankets, can you find the first star in the summer sky, the big dipper, or make your own constellations with dot paint on black construction paper.

S is for S’Mores: A Camping Alphabet by Helen Foster James

Activity: Make s'mores. How many different types of chocolate and biscuit combinations can you use to make a s’more?

Summertime in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder

Activity: Find a local farm to pick some stone fruit or a field with blackberries or raspberries.

For more fun with The Little House on the Prairie, check out our The Playful Pioneers curriculum.

Join the conversation and share your favorite books and ideas for summer fun! 

Click here for helpful hints on teaching your child to read.

For a full year learning plan that incorporates books and projects, check out our open and go parent guides.

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