Phoenix — With schools closed and summer vacations starting, it’s hard to keep kids away from technology and prevent the dreaded summer brain drain.

Reading is one way to keep children active and engaged, and the Maricopa County Summer Reading Program is a great way to encourage them. This annual program will run from June 1 through August 1 at 65 libraries in Maricopa County.

The theme of this year’s program is “All Together Now,” encouraging readers of all ages to explore stories of unity, kindness and community.

“It’s a really fun and exciting program. Of course, one of the biggest reasons we do this program is to help children avoid the learning losses that can occur during the school year and summer. We also really want to develop lifelong reading habits,” said Samantha Mears of the Maricopa County Library District.

Registration is easy and free.log on www.MaricopaCountyReads.org again www.CondadoDeMaricopaLee.org in spanish.

Each read is worth 1 point. The goal is to read for 20 minutes a day to build a strong, lifelong reading habit. And the best part is that you can earn prizes for reaching various milestones.

“That means you can win prizes at 500, 750, or 1000 points. Win things like Peter Piper pizza or free food coupons at Raging Canes. Tickets to a Phoenix Mercury basketball game or state park passes. You might hit it,” Mears said. “And of course, my favorite prize is getting over 120 free books to choose from for all ages.” ”

Points can be earned in various ways.

• Read paper books and e-books
• listen to audiobooks
• Participate in library events
• Participate in community experiences
• Complete the Summer Vacation Reading Challenge

And summer reading programs aren’t just for young children. Even infants can register.

“Summer reading is literally for all ages. You can do that,” said Lee Franklin of the Phoenix Public Library.

“So we have game boards for premature babies. We also have game boards for elementary school students. And we have programs and competitions for teens and adults. We have special prizes for adults. ready,” she said. “I want everyone to read it.”

Personally, my 9-year-old twins, Zachary and Zoe, love the summer reading program. Over the years I’ve had them participate, and this summer I signed up myself.

And this time, thanks to Franklin, we have a special treat for 12News viewers.

She created special summer reading badges to help kids earn extra points.

Enter the special code “TramLovesToRead” when logging on to MaricopaCountyReads.org to earn extra points toward your reading goal.

Have a nice summer of reading!

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