Today is the first day of July and that means summer is in full swing. If your kids are anything like mine, the newness of summer has already worn off and the grumblings of boredom have begun. During the brief beginning of summer we have completed hundreds of miles of bike riding, thousands of hours of swimming, watched countless hours of Disney+, and created enough arts and crafts to fill a museum. In addition, the heat and humidity of summer has become unpleasant and keeps outdoor play limited. All that’s left to do is read books from a kid approved reading list.
Reading may be the reason why this is my favorite part of summer. The days are long and during the heat of the day you can spend your time indoors with a Popsicle and a good book. Luckily, it seems my kids are beginning to see the benefit of this midday rest and read session. They miss the hottest part of the day and remain rested for night time activities like swimming or fireworks.
Actual Kid Approved Books
Despite the many benefits of reading, getting my kids to actually read isn’t always easy. They don’t actively search for a good book. However, if a book happens to find its way into their hands they will read it and be happier for it. If you’re looking for some first chapter books for your early reader, this is a list of books my kids actually read and enjoyed. Each book on this list is part of a series, so if your child enjoys one book, there are plenty of other similar books to choose from. Also, books in a series allows kids to become familiar with characters, phrasing, and story flow that can help them gain fluency and comprehension.
Also, don’t forget to grab a reading journal so your child can track their opinion of the books they read as well as create memories of this time in their life.
Eva’s Campfire Adventure (Owl Diaries #12)
By Rebecca Elliott
This is the latest book in the series. This series is part of Scholastic’s early chapter book line aimed at newly independent readers. The fast-paced, fun content has lots of colorful illustrations and will give your reader confidence as they quickly finish books in this series.
Mercy Watson Goes for a Ride
By Kate DiCamillo
If your kid loves stories that involve animals as much as my kids do, than this chapter book that stars the lovable pig, Mercy. This book is also one of a series so if there are plenty of stories about the chaos that seems to follow Mercy.
Barkus
By Patricia MacLachlan
Patricia MacLachlan is the same author of Sarah, Plain and Tall. Barkus is her first chapter book for early readers and stars her actual neighborhood dog. The stories are straightforward and easy to follow and include vibrant illustrations.
Super Fly Guy
By Tedd Arnold
Super Fly Guy is a series of books of a boy and his pet fly. Like many books on this list the plot is hilarious, fast moving and includes colorful illustrations to help keep your kids attention.
Junie B. Jones: Aloha-ha-ha!
By Barbara Park
Would any early reader list be complete without Junie B. Jones? My family and I think not. Junie B. Jones books are hilarious and something not only kids but parents enjoy reading. This particular book in the series is perfect for summer because Junie B. gets to take a vacation to Hawaii.