As the state’s only pediatric health system 100% dedicated to kids, Connecticut Children’s understands just how important reading is – and the positive impact it can have on a child’s physical and mental health.

With our 25th Anniversary and the summer season upon us, we’re dedicating the month of July to reading and the value it brings to children and adults of all ages.

Want to join the fun? Here’s how.

Step 1: Check out the books on our 25th Anniversary Reading List.

Join Connecticut Children’s in spreading the love of reading this summer and pick up a book from our 25th Anniversary Reading List.

Developed for children of all ages by our very own Robert Keder, MD, and the Division of Developmental Pediatrics, the list includes our top 25 books for infants to young adults. Use it to guide your family’s summer reading and share with neighbors and friends.

And don’t forget – most titles are available for free at your local library.

Step 2: Have a summer adventure.

Reading leads to so many new adventures!

Use this Summer Adventure Bingo card (available in English and Spanish), created in partnership with the Hartford Public Library, to challenge your child to fun summer activities, like coloring a picture, reading outside… and writing a book review!

> Related: How to Keep Kids Reading All Summer Long

Step 3: Submit a book review for a chance to win!

Help your child submit a book review, either written or video, to celebrate [at] connecticutchildrens.org (celebrate[at]connecticutchildrens[dot]org) to be entered into a prize raffle!

Please submit by July 31, 2021, and include your contact information and your child’s name, age, grade/school, and town.

Happy reading!