This year, students are encouraged to read or be read to as much as possible from favorite authors, topics, and genres. We know students grow most as readers when they have opportunities to engage with books and texts they genuinely enjoy.
Considering the wide range of student interests and our commitment to educational excellence, our Media Specialists have developed a suggested book list for families. These selections were chosen to spark curiosity, nurture a love of reading, support social-emotional growth, and connect to areas of learning across our curriculum. There are no specific required titles for students to read over the summer. Families are encouraged to choose books and reading experiences that are a good fit for their unique reader.
When helping your child select books, a simple strategy is to have them read a page aloud. If they struggle with more than a few words, the text may be better suited as a read-aloud or shared reading experience.
Research continues to show that children who read regularly over the summer maintain and strengthen important literacy skills. Most importantly, summer reading helps children continue seeing reading as an enjoyable and meaningful part of everyday life.
For families with reluctant readers, remember that all reading counts. Graphic novels, magazines, audiobooks, picture books, and being read to by an adult all help children develop as readers. Shared reading experiences and audiobooks are wonderful ways to build vocabulary, comprehension, and a lifelong love of stories.
Here are some ways you can support your child as a reader this summer:
• Share picture books as a family. Picture books are for readers of all ages and often lead to rich conversations and thinking.
• Encourage your child to make their own book, magazine, and audiobook selections. Any reading counts!
• Let your child see you reading and talking about books you enjoy.
• Audiobooks are a wonderful option and help support fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
• Encourage your child to read or listen to reading for at least 20 minutes a day.
Read, Explore, and Learn This Summer
• Summer of Fun Calendar – All students will receive a Summer of Fun Calendar with activities that encourage creativity, curiosity, movement, kindness, and learning throughout the summer. Children are encouraged to complete activities and return the calendar to school in September.
• Media Specialists’ 2026 Summer Reading List – An optional resource for families looking for book ideas and recommendations for their children.
• Lynnfield Public Library Summer Reading Program – Families are encouraged to participate in the Lynnfield Public Library’s Summer Reading Program. The kickoff event will be held on the Town Common on Monday, June 29, from 2:30–4:00 p.m. Register HERE to join the fun and receive updates.
• Barnes and Noble's Summer Reading Program – Participation is a fun and easy way for children to earn a free book through the Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program.
• MENSA for Kids Excellence in Reading Program – A free reading challenge for students under 18 that encourages reading high-quality literature and nonfiction. Readers who complete an entire grade-level reading list earn a certificate of achievement and a commemorative T-shirt from MENSA.
•Rebekah Gienapp Summer Reading Guide – Families may choose to explore this collection of recent, diverse, and engaging books for both avid and reluctant readers, including stories that highlight a variety of cultures, experiences, and perspectives.
• Freckle and Lalilo (K-2)– Students can continue to access their school accounts through Clever and the Renaissance app. These programs can help motivate children as they continue to strengthen skills.
Questions? Contact Maureen Fennessy, Director of Language Arts, at fennessym@lynnfield.k12.ma.us