How to Reduce Summer Learning Loss: Simple Strategies That Work

Summer and learning don’t always go hand in hand but what if they could? With the right approach, summer can be a season of imagination, discovery, and growth. At NABU, we believe that reading doesn’t have to stop when school does. In fact, summer is the perfect time to build joyful literacy habits that last a lifetime.

In this post, we’re sharing six simple, creative ways to help children stay engaged with reading during the holidays without making it feel like homework. Whether it’s through storytelling, audiobooks, culturally relevant books, or playful routines, we’re here to help make reading fun all season long.

It Doesn’t Have to Be Boring

The words “summer” and “learning” don’t usually go together in a child’s mind, but maybe they should. The key is to make reading fun, low-pressure, and part of everyday life. Whether it’s math games, creative writing, or storybooks they want to read, summer learning should feel like play, not school.

Here are six simple, proven strategies that can help kids stay confident and connected through the break:

1. Make Reading Enjoyable with Books That Reflect Real Life

Children stay engaged when they see themselves in the stories they read. At NABU, we create books in mother tongue languages written and illustrated by local creators - stories that reflect kids' cultures, languages, and everyday realities.

Start exploring culturally relevant books on the NABU Web Reader or download the NABU App.

2. Create Light, Enjoyable Reading Routines

Even 10–15 minutes of reading a day makes a big difference. It could be a bedtime ritual, part of breakfast, or wind-down time in the afternoon. A light routine keeps kids connected to learning without feeling like school.

3. Use Audiobooks and Read-Alouds to Build Interest

For emerging readers, listening is learning. Audiobooks and read-alouds help build vocabulary, comprehension, and imagination. NABU’s YouTube channel is filled with engaging stories read by familiar voices.

Watch and listen on NABU's YouTube Channel

4. Let Them Choose What to Read

Kids are more likely to read what they choose. Whether it’s comics, adventure stories, or bilingual picture books, the key is variety and agency. Our NABU collections are designed for all interests, from health and environment to friendship and innovation.

• Browse 8 NABU Books to Keep Kids Reading All Summer Long
• Explore NABU’s Girl Empowerment Collection
• Explore NABU’s Boy Empowerment Collection
• Explore our Environment and society Collection

5. Join Reading Clubs or Community Programs

Community reading camps offer a powerful mix of structure, social fun, and consistent practice. In Rwanda, NABU supports community-led sessions using our digital books, helping children learn in ways that feel joyful and natural.

6. Make Learning Feel Like Play

Drawing, acting out stories, or making up new endings keeps children connected to books creatively. These playful activities help reinforce vocabulary, improve comprehension, and build confidence.

Whether a child is reading quietly or re-enacting a story with friends, what matters is that they’re engaged.

We’re Just Getting Started

At NABU, we believe stories should be accessible, joyful, and reflective of real lives. Through free access to mother tongue books, read-alouds, and creative campaigns, we’re helping children build the literacy skills they need during the school year and beyond.

Want to help us reach more children?

💌 Donate to support the development of more culturally relevant books 🤝 Partner with us to co-create or distribute stories info@nabu.org

These aren’t just books.They’re lifelines.Windows into healing. Mirrors of identity. Sparks of hope.

Help us write the next chapter for children who need it most.