Summer Reading Bucket List for Kids + Mom (Free Printable!)

When school’s out and the sun is shining, there's no better time to spark a love of reading! Whether you're heading to the beach or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this Summer Reading Bucket List for Kids + Mom is packed with engaging reads and bonding moments. Plus, we’ve included a free printable book tracker to keep everyone motivated and organized.

Why Summer Reading Matters for Families

Reading during the summer isn’t just about entertainment—though it certainly delivers that too! It plays a crucial role in helping kids:

• Retain what they’ve learned over the school year

• Expand their vocabulary

• Improve focus and comprehension

For moms, reading can offer a refreshing escape and a chance for self-growth or relaxation. Even better? Making reading a family affair builds routines and deepens connections.

Creating a Memorable Summer Reading Bucket List

Start your list by mixing genres and themes to keep things fresh. Let kids pick a few of their favorites too. Categories can include:

• Adventure stories

• Picture books

• Chapter books

• Nature or science-themed titles

• Feel-good reads for moms

Pro Tip: Write your list on a big poster or use our printable tracker (more on that below!).

Tips for Getting Kids Excited About Reading

Want to make reading magical? Try these creative ideas:

• Set up a backyard reading tent or “book nook.”

• Do themed days (pirate books + treasure hunts!)

• Use stickers or a rewards jar for every book read

• Pair books with snacks related to the story

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Top 10 Must-Read Summer Books for Kids

Here are our handpicked favorites broken down by age group:

Picture Books for Little Ones (Ages 3–5)

1. The Watermelon Seed by Greg Pizzoli

2. How to Catch a Mermaid by Adam Wallace

3. Beach Day by Karen Roosa

4. And Then Comes Summer by Tom Brenner

Chapter Books for Emerging Readers (Ages 6–8)

1. Magic Tree House: Dolphins at Daybreak by Mary Pope Osborne

2. The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale

3. Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer by Megan McDonald

Adventure & Fantasy Books (Ages 9–12)

1. Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

2. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

3. Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein

Best 10 Summer Reads for Moms

Because moms need stories that fuel their soul too!

Beach Reads & Romantic Escapes

1. The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han

2. Beach Read by Emily Henry

3. Every Summer After by Carley Fortune

Mystery, Thriller & True Crime Picks

1. The Guest List by Lucy Foley

2. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

3. I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara

Inspirational Non-Fiction for Personal Growth

1. Untamed by Glennon Doyle

2. Atomic Habits by James Clear

3. Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist

4. The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra Adachi

Make Reading Fun with a Printable Book Tracker

Introducing the Summer Book Tracker from busymommasnook.com! This easy-to-use sheet lets your family color in a book shape for each title you complete—turning reading into a vibrant visual goal.

How to Incorporate the Tracker into Your Routine

• Post it on the fridge or reading corner

• Laminate and use dry-erase markers

• Add a family reward (ice cream trip!) for every row filled

Download your free printable summer book tracker!

Summer Book Tracker.pdf

Download PDF • 34KB

Fun Summer Reading Activities for Families

Keep the reading spirit alive with these ideas:

• Host a Book Picnic: Grab a blanket, snacks, and a favorite book outdoors

• Book-themed Crafts: Create paper puppets or bookmarks based on stories

• Join Local Library Challenges: Free books, prizes, and more!

How to Set Summer Reading Goals (and Stick to Them!)

Set attainable goals like:

• 20 minutes of reading a day

• 10 books by the end of July

• 1 new author each week

Track progress weekly and celebrate milestones!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I motivate my child to read in the summer? Make it fun! Use trackers, create cozy spaces, and let them choose books they love.

2. Should I follow a strict reading schedule? No need for rigidity. Consistency helps, but flexibility keeps it stress-free.

3. Can younger and older kids share a reading list? Yes! Use audiobooks or read aloud together to bridge age differences.

4. Is the printable tracker reusable? If you laminate it, yes! Or print new copies each year.

5. What’s a good reward system for summer reading? Simple things like choosing the next family movie, picking a dessert, or earning a day out.

6. Where can I find more book suggestions? Check your local librarian's summer picks or visit Read Brightly.

Conclusion: Make This Summer One for the Books!

The Summer Reading Bucket List for Kids + Mom is more than a checklist—it’s an invitation to explore new worlds, strengthen family bonds, and cultivate a love for learning. With your book tracker in hand and stories in your heart, this summer promises unforgettable moments.