Literacy and Writing Contest for Black Youth

My 7-year-old LOVES reading, but writing isn’t his favorite forte. However, he loves a challenge and a good win. I think it’s great that some of these publishing companies and businesses have contests for kids during the summer to encourage them to continue reading and writing even when they are not in school. Take a look at some of these contests for your kids:

2019 African American Voices in Children’s Literature Writing Contest

Deadline: June 30, 2019

Eligibility: African American heritage, a resident of Minnesota and

at least 18 years of age

Details: Eligible entries will include original fiction or nonfiction manuscripts for ages 0–4 (50–125 words) or ages 4–8 (300–800 words) featuring contemporary African American characters and culture and focusing on one or more of the following topics: character development, self-esteem, diversity, getting along with others, engaging with family and community, or other topics related to positive childhood development.

Award & Prize: $1,000 cash prize, a T-shirt from Strive, a tote bag from Free Spirit, and a meeting with Mary Taris, founder of Strive, and an editor from Free Spirit to discuss the winner’s project. The winning submission will be seriously considered for publication by Free Spirit, cobranded with Strive; however, the publication is not guaranteed.

Second Place: $500 cash prize, a T-shirt from Strive, and a tote bag from Free Spirit

Third Place: $250 cash prize, a T-shirt from Strive, and a tote bag from Free Spirit

Apply here

8TH ANNUAL “I GOT BANK!” FINANCIAL LITERACY CONTEST

Deadline: submissions must be postmarked or emailed by June 15, 2018.

Eligibility: between the ages of 8 – 12 years old

Simply either write and submit a 250-word essay or create and submit an art project about what you learned from the book “I Got Bank!” (or from another financial literacy book available in your library or home) and how you can use what you learned in your life or the life of your family.

Award & Prize: $1,000

For more details

Summer Reading Programs

Amazon Summer Reading Program

1. Read any 8 books (Your choice from a list provided)

2. Keep track and have your list complete by September 10 (The Westling Game, A Wrinkle in Time, Nanny Paws).

3. Get a Star Reader Certificate choice 1 free book

Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program for Kids (Summer 2019)

The Barnes and Noble summer reading program for kids gives kids a free book when they read 8 books over the summer.

The Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program is here to help you on your way, encouraging you to read books of your own choosing and earn a FREE book, simply by following these three easy steps:

1. Read any eight books this summer and record them in your Summer Reading Journal (English or Español). Tell us which part of the book is your favorite, and why.

2. Bring your completed journal to a Barnes & Noble store between May 15th and September 3rd, 2018. Find a Store

3. Choose your FREE reading adventure from the book list featured on the back of the journal.

Educators: Download more information here (PDF)

Reward Your Kids With Family Fun

Download, print and track progress on our Chuck E. Cheese’s Rewards Calendars and Behavior Charts for Kids. Print out your report and bring it into any Chuck E Cheese for 10 points.

Your local Public Library

Each city and suburb has its own reading challenge for kids 0+. The library has its own rules and prizes, so contact your local library for more details.