For most young students, summer is a hard-earned reprieve from homework, studying, and everything else associated with the long school year. And many parents would agree that it’s a well-deserved break. After all, our little ones deserve a breather from working so hard. And it’s not like they’re completely free from responsibility. There’s always that summer reading list to tackle. But is it really enough to keep them sharp through weeks without class?
Just think about it this way: In most life situations, a hard stop is a hard stop. If you end a workout routine or take a long furlough from piano lessons, you’ll stop seeing improvement. And when it comes to academic development, the same logic applies.
According to Tina Lobel-Reichberg, Early Childhood Coordinator and Learning Specialist at Léman Manhattan Prep, children who engage in learning throughout the summer are less likely to experience learning loss and are better positioned to hit the ground running come fall. And you don’t have to sign up your child for rigorous summer classes or personal tutoring. In fact, a handful of good books will do the trick.
“Studies show that children who read for fun outperform their academic peers who don’t. It’s simple: reading supports overall brain development and summer is the perfect time to show your children how enjoyable it can be,” Lobel-Reichberg says.
We went straight to the library to consult with Sharon Elswit, Lower School Librarian at Léman Manhattan Prep. She has some great suggestions for supporting healthy reading habits and a plethora of book recommendations.
“Start with your child’s interests. Take note of what sparks their curiosity and search for new passions, together,” Elswit says. “You might take a trip to the American Museum of Natural History and realize your child is fascinated with whales or the cosmos. Whatever it is, the library will surely offer plenty of opportunities for further exploration, in fiction and nonfiction.”
What’s more, it doesn’t have to be a solitary or sedentary experience. Elswit suggests the following ideas for summer reading fun:
- Form a book club with your child’s friends and their parents
- Start a collection of pocket-size paperbacks so you can bring a book everywhere you go as a family
- Join a New York Public Library summer reading program
- Go on excursions to reinforce moments or details from a story
- Read the book and watch the movie; making comparisons and drawing connections is great exercise for critical thinking
Elswit encourages parents to avoid testing vocabulary or asking exam-style questions about the content. Instead, engage your child in a conversation about what they are reading. Invite them to teach you what they’ve learned.
There are so many wonderful books out there, Elswit compiled a list of recommendations with age-appropriate ideas for readers in kindergarten through fifth grade with a variety of interests, from New York City landmarks to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) to history.
KINDERGARTEN
New York, New York!: The Big Apple from A to Z by Laura Krauss Melmed
This fun book explores New York City’s neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and famous destinations. The Big Apple comes to life with Frané Lessac’s colorful folk-art illustrations as author Laura Krauss Melmed’s alphabetical tour takes you from the American Museum of Natural History to the Brooklyn Bridge and beyond.
Larry Gets Lost in New York City by John Skewes
This engaging story follows Larry and his family as they journey across New York City, visiting its many famous sites and destinations along the way. The adventures throughout all five boroughs are exciting (and exhausting!)–but what happens when Larry goes off on his own?
This Is New York by Miroslav Sasek
First published in 1960, This is New York is a wonderfully unique book for parents and children to enjoy together. Miroslav Sasek describes the culture, architecture, and energy that have remained the essence of New York for over fifty years.
Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin
How do you lure dragons to a party? In Adam Rubin’s funny story, we learn that tacos are the trick. The creatures love all kinds of the snack, from chicken tacos to beef tacos, from bite-size to gargantuan–but be sure to hold the salsa.
Moonshot: The Flight of Apollo 11 by Brian Floca
This powerful yet simple tale recounts the flight of Apollo 11. Based on the real events of the summer of 1969, Brian Floca’s story introduces a new generation to the adventure, discovery, and significance of it all.
1ST GRADE
A Walk in New York by Salvarore Rubbino
A young boy and his father spend a delightful day walking around New York City in this lively tale. They see amazing sights, experience the best of the big city, and pick up plenty of fun facts along the way.
New York State Of Mind by Billy Joel
The lyrics of Billy Joel’s classic song “New York State of Mind” come to life in this imaginative picture book. Two small but energetic dogs explore favorite NYC landmarks and celebrate the magic of the greatest city on earth.
Nighttime Ninja by Barbara DaCosta
Let your imagination run wild in this story about a quiet ninja on the hunt for treasure late at night. Find out what he’s looking for during his adventurous mission, as well as whether or not he ultimately finds it.
A drop around the world by Barbara Mckinney
This educational page-turner introduces young readers to the wonders of the water cycle. Follow a single drop of water as it travels around the world and transforms from steam to snow and ice.
What happens to a hamburger? by Paul Showers
This book is perfect for young readers who are interested in science. The story takes you on a journey through the human digestive system as it illustrates and explains how food is transformed into energy.
2ND GRADE
Grand Central Terminal: Gateway to New York City by Ed Stanley
Follow the story of Grand Central Terminal, beginning with its construction in the mid-nineteenth century. Learn about the architecture and important people that made Grand Central the significant landmark it is today.
Through Time: New York City by Richard Platt
Travel through time and find out what New York City was like 100–or even 400–years ago. Readers get to follow the evolution of various locations and their inhabitants over time, learning about major historical events along the way.
A Poem as Big as New York City: Little Kids Write About the Big Apple by Walter Dean Myers
This book-length poem weaves together the perspectives and words of students from across New York City who share what it’s like to live, learn, and grow up in the Big Apple.
Creepy Carrots! by Aaron Reynolds
This Caldecott-Honor winning picture book tells the tale of a rabbit caught in The Twilight Zone. Exploring the concept of greed in a comical way, Jasper Rabbit ponders the worst–are his favorite carrot patch treats out to get him?
Old Turtle by Douglas Wood
In this modern fable, creatures and elements of nature – from animals to rocks and wind – question the basis of spirituality and the interconnectedness of all beings with a positive, powerful message.
3RD GRADE
My New York: New Anniversary Edition by Kathy Jakobsen
A young New Yorker writes to her Midwestern friend, detailing the many wonders of New York City that they will see together when he comes for a visit. The story is filled with fun facts and accompanied by vivid imagery.
Hope In New York City: The Continuing Story of The Irish Dresser by Cynthia G.Neale
This sequel continues the saga of Nora McCabe, an Irish Catholic immigrant who is trying to find the meaning of home in her new country, despite the fact that she’s with her family. Following a series of events, she decides to return to her native land–but what happens when her father goes missing? Find out if Nora will ultimately decide to stay in America.
What color is my world? by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
This book details the lost history of African American inventors and the incredible improvements they’ve made to people’s lives. From Fred Jones’ invention of the refrigerated truck to Dr. Percy Julian’s discovery that cortisone can be synthesized from soy, there are countless new facts for readers to learn.
Hooray for Diffendoofer Day! by Dr Seuss with help from Jack Prelutsky
In this quirky story about individuality, Miss Bonkers must prove that she has taught her students how to think at Diffendoofer School. If she’s unable to do so, they’ll all be sent to–gasp!–Flobbertown
National Geographic Readers: Planets by Elizabeth Carney
This informative book explores the solar system and is sure to captivate curious young readers with an interest in outer space. Brilliant illustrations and simple language will get the attention of level two readers as they learn fun facts about planets and dwarf planets.
4TH GRADE
The Dinosaur Museum: An Unforgettable, Interactive Virtual Tour Through Dinosaur History by National Geographic Society
A behind-the-scenes tour of a natural history museum, this interactive adventure encourages children to investigate and learn about dinosaurs. Little paleontologists can take part in interactive investigations through a pop-up fossil finds map, a specimen drawer, and a chart that compares the size of dinosaurs to modern animals.
Rosie in New York City: Gotcha! by Carol Matas
Rosie Lepidus is forced to grow up at the young age of 11 in this story. When her mother comes down with pneumonia, Rosie’s father throws the family’s life savings into the nickelodeon business. She’s always avoided trouble in the past, but after taking a job at the shirtwaist factory where her Mama worked and experiencing the horrific conditions, Rosie is tempted to participate in a strike.
City of Orphans by Avi
Set on the streets of New York in the 1890s, this book tells the story of 13-year-old newsboy Maks Geless as he’s on the run from a gang. At the same time, his sister, Emma, has been imprisoned for allegedly stealing a watch. Maks knows his sister is innocent, but how can he defend her when he’s in danger himself?
New York, Line by Line: From Broadway to the Battery by Robinson
Written in the early 1960s, a German illustrator who visited New York documented the city in “X-ray view”–depicting buildings from both inside and out. Robinson, considered a graphics pioneer, also included urban facts in the book.
This Moose Belongs to Me by Oliver Jeffers
Wilfred is a boy that plays by the rules, so he expects the same of his pet moose. The only problem? The moose doesn’t realize he’s Wilfred’s pet. This tale explores the concept of ownership in a thoughtful and witty manner.
If You Find A Rock by Peggy Christian
This poetic celebration of rocks takes a look at the places in which they are found, as well as the various types of rocks in existence. Rock-collecting kids will enjoy the detailed photographs within the book–ranging from skipping rocks to wishing rocks.
5TH GRADE
Lincoln’s Last Days: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever by Bill O’Reilly
This thrilling book recounts the events of the night Lincoln’s was assassinated in 1865, changing American history forever. Kids will be hooked on this story as they learn about the past in this story based on O’Reilly’s bestselling thriller.
The Mystery In New York (The Boxcar Children Special, no. 13) by Gertrude Chandler Warner & Charles Tang
The natural-born detectives of the Alden family are visiting New York City when someone steals a priceless diamond from their friend. Needless to say, their vacation quickly becomes a mystery-solving assignment.
Out of my mind by Sharon M. Draper
This is the compelling story of a brilliant 11-year-old girl who refuses to be defined by her cerebral palsy. Although some of her classmates think of her as mentally challenged because she is unable to explain herself, she is remarkably intelligent and remembers every detail of each day.
The Number Devil: A Mathematic Adventure by Hans Magnus Enzensberger
Math becomes a fun adventure in this story about the numerical world. In a series of 12 dreams, a young boy is visited by the number devil, who leads him through a maze of mathematical theory.
101 Great Science Experiments by Neil Ardley
Featuring step-by-step instructions for 101 great science experiments, learn how to turn your home into a science laboratory using everyday objects. Young scientists are sure to enjoy this educational and fun read!
