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64% of parents say children get bored in the summer holidays as free Reading Challenge returns

64% of parents say children get bored in the summer holidays as free Reading Challenge returns

A free library challenge launches this July to help keep children reading, connected and entertained over the summer.

Boy reading a book on the sofa.

Getty/Daniel Llao Calvet

MadeForMums

Published: June 29, 2026 at 12:01 PM

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As many families start planning for the long summer holidays, new research suggests parents are increasingly concerned about how their children will spend the six-week break, with worries about boredom, loneliness and the rising cost of activities.

The Reading Agency's latest survey found nearly two-thirds (64%) of parents say their children can feel bored during the summer holidays, while 44% worry about their child's wellbeing. More than half (55%) also say their child misses out on holiday activities because of the cost.

Launching on Saturday 4 July, The Reading Agency's free Summer Reading Challenge aims to give families an affordable way to keep children entertained, with this year's music-inspired Read to the Beat theme offering books, library events and creative activities across England and Wales.

A free summer activity for children aged 4 to 11

Delivered by The Reading Agency in partnership with public libraries, the Summer Reading Challenge encourages children to read for fun throughout the holidays.

This year's Read to the Beat theme has been created with Universal Music Group UK, combining stories with music, rhythm and creativity. Children can take part by visiting their local library or signing up online from 4 July.

Books featured in the challenge include:

Space Band by Tom Fletcher
Lil' Muffin by Romesh Ranganathan
Put Your Records On by Corinne Bailey Rae

Children can also set personalised reading goals for the first time, whether that's trying graphic novels, poetry, audiobooks or exploring a new genre. Every participant will receive a special edition of Storytime magazine filled with stories, games and musical activities.

Parents are looking for affordable ways to keep children engaged

The findings highlight the pressures many families face over the summer break.

According to The Reading Agency's research:

68% of parents say rising activity costs put pressure on their family.
71% rely on free or low-cost activities during the holidays.
62% worry about the cost of summer activities affecting their own wellbeing.
43% say their children can feel lonely away from friends.
54% say children miss the routine of school during the summer.
51% find it difficult to keep their children engaged and stimulated.

Reading was widely seen as one way to help tackle some of these challenges. The survey found 84% of parents believe reading benefits their child's mental wellbeing, while 87% say it helps build confidence and emotional skills. Four in five parents (80%) also believe books can help children feel less lonely.

However, making time for reading isn't always easy. Just 41% of parents said they regularly read with their child during the holidays, compared with 60% who spend time outdoors together and 57% who watch television or films together. Nearly seven in 10 parents (69%) said they wished they had more time to read as a family.

Libraries will host free events throughout the holidays

The challenge forms part of the Government-backed National Year of Reading 2026 and will include free library events, celebrity readings and creative activities across the summer.

One family will also have the chance to win tickets to Camp Bestival 2027, along with travel and food vouchers, by completing The Reading Agency's family survey about what they've read and listened to over the holidays.

Karen Napier MBE, Chief Executive of The Reading Agency, said families often face difficult choices during the school break.

Our research shows that reading can play a powerful role in supporting children's wellbeing during the holidays. Getting lost in books and stories boosts their confidence and mood, sparks imagination and helps them feel connected to the world around them.

Karen Napier MBE, Chief Executive of The Reading Agency

She added: "The Summer Reading Challenge gives families a fun and accessible way to make reading part of their summer, while discovering everything their local library has to offer. We'd love to see more parents visiting their local library and joining the challenge during Super Sign-Up Saturday."

Sharlotte Ritchie, Senior Director of Global Impact & Communications at Universal Music Group, also highlighted the partnership.

Reading and music provide a gateway to new worlds and emotions that spark curiosity and imagination. Universal Music Group UK and The Reading Agency are bringing both together for the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge. By signing up to the Challenge, families and children across the UK will have the chance to find more moments of excitement, creativity, and inspiration in the school holidays.

Sharlotte Ritchie, Senior Director of Global Impact & Communications at Universal Music Group

How to take part

Families can sign up for the free Summer Reading Challenge from Saturday 4 July by visiting their local participating library or registering online through The Reading Agency.

The programme is aimed at children aged 4 to 11 and runs throughout the summer holidays, giving families free access to books, activities and events at libraries across the UK.

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