Recommended reading to stop the summer holiday slide

Educators know that children in primary school can lose significant literacy knowledge over the long summer holidays.

But NSW Department of Education literacy consultant Jade Arnold says reading during the summer break is a great way to prevent the dreaded ‘summer slide’, where students lose progress made during the school year.

Arnold says summer reading is also a wonderful opportunity to focus on reading for enjoyment, on top of the academic benefits.

“It’s a great chance for less engaged readers to discover the types of books they enjoy, and for avid readers to read outside their comfort zone,” Arnold says.

She says parents can help develop their children’s love of reading by ensuring family holidays include time for reading – and that children see adults enjoying reading as well.

“Wherever your holiday time takes you, set aside time to read together–whether it’s at the beach, by the pool, in the park, at the library or relaxing at home,” she says.

Arnold also reminds parents to tap into local public libraries for free access to audiobooks and eBooks.

“Many offer summer reading programs, and librarians will be able to help recommend and help you find great books.

“If you’re heading off on a road trip these holidays, try listening to an audiobook together as a family.”

Turn a page this new year

When it comes to supplying recommendations for summer holiday reading, Arnold points to her favourite books for young readers from the NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge lists.

The Premier’s Reading Challenge encourages a love of reading quality literature for leisure and pleasure in students and is open to all NSW students in kindergarten to year 10 in public schools, Catholic schools, independent schools and home schools.

All books read during the summer break can be added to a students’ online reading record once the NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge opens on 24 February 2025.

Five books to read before starting kindergarten

1. Starting School by Jane Godwin & Anna Walker
2. Wombat goes to school by Jackie French & Bruce Whatley
3. The Pigeon HAS to Go to School by Mo Willems
4. Maddi’s First Day by Penny Matthews & Liz Anelli
5. Mini and Milo: The Big Flappy Ears by Venita Dimos & Natashia Curtin

Five must-read books for 5-8 years

1. The Do Not Open This Book series by Andy Lee
2. The School of Monsters series by Sally Rippin & Chris Kennett
3. Wombat Stew by Marcia K. Vaughan & Pamela Lofts
4. I’m Australian Too by Mem Fox & Ronjoy Ghosh
5. Our Dreaming by Kirli Saunders & Dub Leffer

Ten must-read books for 9-12 years

1. The Bad Guys by Aaron Blabey
2. The Frog Squad by Kate & Jol Temple & Shiloh Gordon
3. Howzat Pat #1: Dare to Bowl by Pat Cummins & Dave Hartley & Serena Geddes
4. Little Ash #1: Perfect Match by Ash Barty, Jasmin McGaughey & Jane Goodwin
5. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
6. Wandi by Favel Parrett
7. Guts by Raina Telgemeier
8. Hi from Outer Space by Fiona Katauskas
9. Wylah the Koorie Warrior #1: Guardians by Jordan Gould & Richard Pritchard
10. All the Beautiful Things by Katrina Nannestad