Are you ready for the Summer Reading Challenge 2024?
Introducing the 2024 summer reading challenge. It's called 'Marvellous Makers and runs from 20 July to 31 August for children aged 4 to 12. There will also be an Early Years Challenge for children under four as part of the fun.
This year's Challenge aims to fire up children's imaginations and unleash storytelling and creativity through the power of reading. It has been developed in partnership with Create, who are a leading charity bringing the creative arts to those who need it most.
The annual Challenge is delivered in partnership with public libraries and is free to take part. Children taking part in 'Marvellous Makers' can:
discover new stories
join in with free activities at the library
explore their creativity - from junk modelling to music, dance to drawing and painting
By encouraging your child to take part, it:
will help boost their literacy skills through the summer holidays
allows children to become more independent in their reading and when choosing books
encourages imagination and empathy
How to take part
On Sign Up Saturday, children can sign up in any of the six Southend libraries below from Saturday 13th July.
All you need to do is:
Fill out a joining form which you can collect from the library
Checkout your books
After reading 6 books, children can collect a certificate and medal from their local library. They will also be entered into a prize draw.
In addition, children can:
Talk to library staff and volunteers about the books they have read
Write a review and draw pictures
Sessions will also take place at Garon Park Community Hub on Tuesday mornings from 10am to 12pm, where you can review your books and borrow from a selection provided.