Reading? At the pool?
Yep, it’s totally possible.
And no, it doesn’t involve dragging a book around or forcing your child to sit still while everyone else is splashing.

If you’ve ever begged your kid to “just read a little” during the summer and got a hard no, this post is for you.

Why Summer Reading Feels So Hard

During the school year, reading routines are built in.
But when summer hits, kids just want fun—and parents want to avoid the summer slide without ruining the vibe.
So how do we sneak in literacy... without nagging?

Try These No-Nag Reading Tricks by the Pool

 1. Bring Waterproof Books or Magazines

Yes, they exist! Board books, plastic pages, or even laminated printable mini-books can handle poolside splashes and sticky fingers.

 2. Use Audiobooks with a Snack Break

Let your child listen to a story while having a popsicle under the umbrella.
It builds listening comprehension (and gives you a peaceful 10 minutes too).

 3. Play “Find That Word” with Pool Toys

Write sight words on beach balls or floating rings.
Call out a word and have your child race to find it.

 4. Let Them Pick What They Read

Graphic novels, joke books, or simple early readers are all wins.
If they choose it, they’ll read it.

 5. Create a “Poolside Book Basket”

Keep a little waterproof bin of books and snacks near your towel.
If it’s there, they’re more likely to grab it without being told.

Final Thoughts

Summer reading doesn’t have to be a battle.
With a little creativity, you can turn pool time into page time—without a single argument.

Need help boosting your child’s reading skills this summer?
Tutoring with Ms. Susan LLC offers fun, personalized reading support for preschool to 3rd grade.
Let’s make summer reading a breeze.