There’s just one problem. If you don’t read from now until next fall, you could be in trouble when school starts.

Research shows that students who read year-round are better readers and writers. They also do better in school. So here are some ideas that will keep your kids reading all summer:

Aim for six. Research shows that kids who read six books during the summer do better than kids who read fewer books.

Use your library. It’s filled with books you can check out for free. Talk to a librarian if you don’t know what to read. They’re the greatest resource in the library.

Try something new just for fun. If you usually read fiction, try a biography. If you mostly read history, try a murder mystery for a switch. Don’t forget audio books. Some libraries now even let you download audio books to your MP3 player.

Get a jump-start on next year. Read a book or two for a class you’ll be taking. Bring a book to read to the kids you’re baby-sitting.

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