Keeping Reading Fun (and Financially Savvy!) This Summer

Summer is the perfect mix of sunshine and downtime — ideal for encouraging kids to read for pleasure and learning. Here’s how to make reading both fun and educational this summer, with real reading connections and a financial twist.

1. Choose Books That Spark More Exploration

Pick books that link to games, activities, or short videos. If a story centers on animals, space, or friendship, look for related crafts, simple animations, or STEM videos. For comic styles, search for “how to draw like…” tutorials. The key is to let the book open doors to hands‑on creativity.

2. Introduce Real‑World Learning with Bull & Bear

The Bull & Bear picture book series simplify financial topics using whimsical storytelling. The books should spark conversations about money, budgeting, and investing. Pair reading them with pretend stock market games or a mock savings challenge to reinforce what readers are learning from the books.

• Bull & Bear Race at the Big Board – a fun introduction to the stock market
  
• Bull & Bear Learn Piggy Banks’ Golden Rule – teaches saving, spending, investing & giving
  
• Bull & Bear Build a Bright Future with Bonds – explores how bonds work and grow over time

3. Turn Reading into a Social Activity

Reading doesn’t have to happen solo:

• Host a book picnic or backyard reading session with friends.
  
• Start a simple book club with playgroups: Each household hosts a different book with accompanying activities during scheduled playdates, so when the group reconvenes next, kids are already looking forward to the next adventure.
  
• Let kids read aloud via video call to grandparents or cousins.

Creative extensions — like drawing a new adventure for the characters — make stories social and inventive. 

4. Pick Books That Preview the School Year Ahead

Look for stories related to what kids will study next year:

• Going into third grade? Try books featuring multiplication, teamwork, or problem‑solving.
  
• Entering fifth grade? Try Frindle or Wonder for themes of creativity and empathy.
  
• If science or U.S. history is coming up, try stories with historical or nature settings to spark early curiosity.

These give kids confidence and interest before the school year even begins.

5. Blend Media with Books (Wisely)

Use media to build on book themes—not replace them. Here’s how:

• Search for YouTube drawing tutorials if your child loves picture‑book characters.
  
• Look up PBS Kids short animations tied to stories like Arthur or Martha Speaks.
  
• Visit our social pages and website for Bull & Bear worksheets, coloring pages or short game ideas.
  

This keeps kids engaged through multiple learning channels.

✅ At a Glance: Quick Summer Reading Tips

Summer reading is all about keeping curiosity alive. Encourage reading in cozy nooks at the beach, or under a shaded tree during playtime breaks. With engaging books and playful follow‑up activities — this summer can be both relaxing and enriching.

Happy summer reading! 🌟