Start a Book Club for Kids

Whether your child's a bookworm or a struggling reader, sharing a book with others is way more fun than reading solo.

By Teri Cettina

Ages

5-13


It’s more fun to read the same book with your buddies, which is why book clubs are especially great for reluctant readers. A few start-up tips from Vicki Levy Krupp, co-author of The Kids’ Book Club Book:

Shoot for second-grade readers and up. Clubs work best when kids can read somewhat independently.
 
Aim for short sessions — an hour tops — otherwise, kids will lose steam.
 
Keep it loose. Even if your kid doesn’t finish the book, any amount of reading is good. She may tackle it later, after hearing pals rave about it. 
 
Pick a spot. Meet at one another’s homes, book a free room at your local library, or gather outside at a park for a book-themed picnic.
 
Get the ball rolling. Parents can take turns jump-starting the discussion. Jot down questions as you read the book, or do an online search for guided questions. Good basics: Who was your favorite character and why? Did you like the ending or would you end it differently?
 
Get active. Your get-together will feel less like “reading class” if you tie in some activities. Make crafts based on the book’s theme, like a simple birdfeeder after reading Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan. Or a short comic strip based on Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney.
 
Try a challenge. If your child would rather read solo, inspire him to join a summer reading program at the library or at Scholastic.com. The Scholastic Summer Challenge includes prizes (like a free e-book), and a chance to set a world record for summer reading minutes. Kids can log their reading time online or on an app. Parents can check out tips and book lists. For more info, go to Scholastic.com/summer.
 
 
More ways to stop the summer slide: 

 

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