As a parent, there’s nothing more heart-wrenching than watching your child struggle — especially when it comes to reading. If your child is reading below grade level or battling low confidence with books, summer can feel like a ticking clock. But here’s the good news: with a simple summer reading plan, you can help your child grow their reading skills, boost their confidence, and maybe even learn to love reading.

If your child is like my son — held back in third grade and just wrapping up fourth — and reading feels more like a chore than a joy, you are not alone. Many 4th and 5th grade students are still building the foundational skills they need to be fluent, confident readers. And summer is a perfect time to slow down and focus without the pressure of classroom comparisons.

Let’s walk through a realistic, encouraging, and parent-friendly summer reading curriculum for struggling readers — especially kids around age 10–11.

Why Is My 4th Grader Struggling With Reading?

Summer break is a time of joy and relaxation for kids, but it can also pose a challenge for parents who want to keep their children’s minds active and engaged. The long vacation often leads to the dreaded "summer slide," where academic skills gained during the school year start to fade. However, summer doesn’t have to mean a pause in learning. In fact, it can be an opportunity for kids to explore new interests and reinforce what they’ve learned in a fun and relaxed environment. So, how can you ensure that your children continue to learn and grow even when school is out? By incorporating a variety of educational activities and experiences, you can turn the summer months into a rich period of growth and discovery. Wondering where to start? Here are ten effective tips to keep your kids learning over the summer, ensuring they return to school refreshed and ahead of the game.

Disney On Ice and Monster Jam Celebrate Reading by Giving Children the Opportunity to Read Books and Receive a Complimentary Ticket!

Kids who read 5 or more books will receive one free ticket to see Disney On Ice or Monster Jam in September.