Published: Tuesday 12 July 2022
Keira, an Apprentice Journalist at Kensington and Chelsea Council, completed the Summer Reading Challenge when she was in Year 6. The challenge encourages children aged four to 11 to read six books of their choosing over the summer holidays to build their literacy skills and introduce them to the benefits and joys of reading for fun.
At school, reading is something you have to do to pass a test, or to learn something about society. That’s interesting for some, but for many, it can completely put us off reading. People turn to books for many different reasons: some want to understand more about our world through clever story telling while others want to escape reality completely and immerse themselves in a world of fantasy.
Keira spoke to us about how the challenge kick-started her love of books, which has since sparked a career focused around reading and writing:
Why should parents encourage their children to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge?
We hear a lot about keeping physically fit over the summer holidays, but it’s also important that children keep their brains engaged outside of term-time. If reading isn’t something children ever do outside of school, it can attract negative associations in their brain, as if it’s something that should only be done for work, not enjoyment. The benefits are endless, and there really is something for everyone.
Why should children choose reading over other forms of entertainment?
Reading a book can engage your imagination in a way a TV show or film never will, all while boosting your vocabulary and building skills that will stay with you throughout your life. Technology has enriched our lives in so many ways, but I think we’re all acutely aware that it’s not without its issues and concerns.
When you compare the experience of visiting a library to browsing TV at home or spending time scrolling on your phone, it’s a much more simple and pleasant experience that isn’t busied with adverts, filler and sometimes age-inappropriate content.
What is there for children and young people at their local library?
The stereotype of libraries couldn’t be further from the truth. Rather than being serious, stuffy places, they are actually a hub of information, ideas and community. Some children think they don’t like reading but the truth is they probably just haven’t found the book or genre that’s right for them. Personally I enjoy fantasy books that paint a picture of fantastical imaginary worlds and characters – but that’s just a fraction of what’s available to read in your local library.
Some people will enjoy non-fiction books that explore the fascinating history of our world, others will be interested in skill building books that can help them understand their own mind and interests. Even if you enjoy magazines, journals, anime or graphic novels, there’s something for everyone.
Beyond the bookshelves, libraries host countless events and activities for all ages, from story-times for younger children to author talks and book clubs for older children. Far from being something done in isolation, reading can bring people together in rich communities surrounding different books, authors and franchises. As we got older, my friends and I would read the same book and discuss our favourite storylines, characters and theories for the next instalment.
How has reading shaped you as a person?
I had always enjoyed reading, but I completed the Summer Reading Challenge and haven’t put books down since. Reading is now a passion of mine and has strengthened my vocabulary, writing ability, and has paved the way for my career as a journalist.
Good English and the ability to spot and tell a story will be an asset in whatever future a young person chooses. Whether they do it for the love of reading, or just to set a goal and see it through, completing the Summer Reading Challenge this summer will be a positive experience in any young person’s life.
To find out more about how your child can take on the Summer Reading Challenge, visit the Library section of the Council website. There are several events taking place over the coming weeks to introduce children to the challenge and to the joys of reading.