Keep kids reading this summer

WHAT was your favourite book growing up? The Tales of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter? The Famous Five by Enid Blyton? Or maybe for younger generations it’s Gangsta Granny by David Walliams!

Reading is an invaluable life skill and, when acquired, a great leveller amongst children from all different backgrounds. Any teacher will tell you that the best way to encourage children to get into reading is to ensure they discover the love of reading for pleasure.

The Summer Reading Challenge by the Reading Agency is an annual event with a mission to instil that passion for reading for pleasure in children from an early age and to avoid a summer holiday reading ‘dip.’ Each summer, children aged four to 11 are encouraged, through their local library service, to read six books and to answer questions

Any teacher will tell you that the best way to encourage children to get into reading is to ensure they discover the love of reading for pleasure on what they have learnt. In return, they are rewarded with stickers, certificates and even a medal!

This year, the Summer Reading Challenge has teamed up with the Science Museum Group for a very special science-themed challenge that will inspire children to use their imagination and creativity. The Gadgeteers will be arriving at Staffordshire Libraries from July 9 and children from across Burton and Uttoxeter will be able to take part in this year’s challenge.

Earlier this week I was delighted to meet the Summer Reading Challenge team and the Gadgeteers in Parliament, to hear about the exciting plans for the scheme this year and the enthusiasm they see each year from children across the country wanting to take part.

To find out more about the Summer Reading Challenge and to get involved, visit your local library or go to www.staffordshire.gov.uk/ libraries

■■The views and opinions of guest columnists do not necessarily represent those of either the Burton Mail or its staff