Summer reading a real winner

BENDIGO kids are being encouraged to take part in a statewide challenge to continue reading as much as they can during their summer holidays for a chance to win prizes like book vouchers and gift cards.

Public Libraries Victoria’s BIG Summer Read officially kicked off last Wednesday, 1 December and is aimed at helping kids develop their literacy skills over the school break while also raising awareness of the benefits of reading.

Goldfields Libraries programs and events coordinator Tammy Higgs said keeping up a reading habit outside of the classroom was critical for young students.

“While it’s important for kids to take a break from school and spend some much-needed social time with family and friends, research shows that many children read less over the holidays, meaning they lose some of those valuable literacy skills they’ve worked so hard to build,” she said.

“Summer is the perfect time for kids to indulge in books and stories for pleasure.”

Challenge participants can log their completed books into the Beanstack website or app, with each milestone reached earning them a badge.

Ms Higgs said at least 10 books needed to be logged to gain entry into the prize draw, including audiobooks, picture books or graphic novels, and extra challenges are available to earn more entries.

“Challenges include reading to your pet, drawing your favourite book character, reading in costume, submitting a book review, and making something delicious from a recipe book,” she said.

While aimed at primary-school aged children, anyone under 18 years old can join the BIG Summer Read.

To get started, visit ncgrl.vic.gov.au/bigsummerread or grab a hard copy entry form and challenge booklet from your local library.