Encourage kids to read more with this fun and free printable reading challenge! A great way to explore new books and keep young readers motivated.
Update: we started doing reading challenges when my boys were little—around 4 years old. They turn 10 this month and they are HUGE readers now. We encouraged them to pick up books as little kids, we read to them (and still do occasionally!), and we make sure they have all sorts of books to choose from, including comics and graphic novels. I am so happy to see that they have fallen as much in love with books as I am!
If you’ve got a kid who devours books—or one who needs a little push to pick one up—this printable reading challenge is such a fun way to shake things up. I made it for my boys when we were stuck in a bit of a reading rut when they were young, and it totally helped spark their curiosity again. Give them a goal like “read a book with a tree on the cover” or “read something by Dr. Seuss,” and suddenly it feels like a game!
What I love about this challenge is that it works for all kinds of readers. You can do it at your own pace, cross off prompts as you go, and use books you already have—or make it a reason for a library trip (my personal favorite outing when we need to get out of the house without spending money). No pressure to spend money, just a little motivation to turn a few more pages.
Things You’ll Need
- The printable reading challenge sheet (download it below!)
- Books that match each prompt (library trip, anyone?)
- A marker or pen to check them off—or laminate it and use a dry erase marker!
Get the Free File
Want access to this free file? Join my FREE craft library! All you need is the password to get in, which you can get by filling out the form below. The file number is: P76.
How to Use This Reading Challenge Printable
There’s no right or wrong way to tackle the list—just pick a prompt and find a book that fits! Your kids can go in order or skip around based on what books you already have or find at the library or store. It’s a fun mix of themes, authors, and visual clues, so there’s something for every kind of reader.
Mom Tip: Laminate It!
If you have a laminator, this is a great printable to use over and over again! Ue dry erase markers to check off each book as you go. You can even wipe it clean and start again with a whole new stack of books next month.
Switch it Up!
- Library Scavenger Hunt: Take the challenge to the library and have kids find books that match the prompts.
- Summer Reading Challenge: Complete the list over the summer with rewards for finishing each prompt.
- Family Book Club: Read books together as a family based on the prompts, and discuss them afterward.
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