This article has been refreshed for 2026 to provide current reading challenge ideas, updated book recommendations, and practical tips for families. All content has been reviewed for accuracy, relevance, and ease of use to help parents and educators encourage children to develop a love of reading.

My daughter’s elementary school recently introduced a 60 day reading challenge sponsored by Six Flags, and I wanted to share the idea with other families who are looking for ways to encourage kids to read more.

The program is simple and motivating. If children read for a total of six hours within a 60 day period, they receive a free ticket to Six Flags. This type of incentive-based reading challenge helps build daily reading habits while keeping kids excited and engaged.

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How We Approached the 60 Day Reading Challenge

To keep the challenge fun and manageable, we used a combination of resources:

• A library card for frequent book swaps

• New children’s books from Amazon

• Activity and coloring books to break things up

• Seasonal and pop-up books to maintain interest

As a family lifestyle blogger, I also receive press releases announcing new children’s book launches. This list includes some of our favorite kids books we read during the challenge, along with a few activity books that were perfect for keeping kids engaged.

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Kids Book Recommendations for Reading Challenges

When You’re Feeling Sick

By Coy Bowles, Illustrated by Andy Elkerton

This picture book uses humor and rhyme to help children cope with sick days. Written by Coy Bowles of the Zac Brown Band, it offers positive messaging and silly illustrations that make it a comforting read for younger kids. A sticker sheet is included, which adds an interactive element.

Best for preschool and early elementary readers.

Buy on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2jzUaa2

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Who Pooped in Central Park? Scat and Tracks for Kids

By Gary D. Robson

This educational book follows four kids as they explore Central Park and learn about local wildlife through animal tracks and scat. It is especially appealing to curious readers who enjoy nature, science, and hands-on learning.

Great for elementary-aged kids and reluctant readers.

Buy on Amazon:  http://amzn.to/2iJSAy5

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The Nutcracker

Illustrated by Niroot Puttapipat

A beautifully illustrated edition of The Nutcracker that captures the magic of the classic ballet. The book concludes with an elegant pop-up spread, making it a memorable keepsake for holiday reading.

Buy on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2jJzWsm

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My Very First Mother Goose, 20th Anniversary Edition

Edited by Iona Opie, Illustrated by Rosemary Wells

This timeless collection of nursery rhymes is ideal for early literacy and parent-child reading time. The watercolor illustrations add warmth and charm, making it a staple for young families.

Buy on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2j5C2RA

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An Artist’s Alphabet

By Norman Messenger

This alphabet book blends art and imagination by forming letters from animals, nature, and objects. It encourages repeat reading and visual exploration, making it ideal for creative and visual learners.

Buy on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2iWmaWa

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The Christmas Story

By Robert Sabuda

This pop-up book presents the Nativity story with intricate paper engineering and rich detail. It is a meaningful option for families looking to include faith-based reading during the holidays.

Buy on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2jJNowA

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Under Water, Under Earth

By Aleksandra Mizielinska and Daniel Mizielinski

Packed with fascinating facts about what exists beneath the earth’s surface and under the sea, this nonfiction title is perfect for kids who enjoy learning how the world works.

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Where’s Waldo? The Coloring Book

Where’s Waldo?  The Coloring Book By Martin Handford

This book combines coloring with visual challenges, offering a creative break from traditional reading while still supporting focus and observation skills.

Buy on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2iWeiEm

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The Coloring Book of Cards and Envelopes: Christmas

The Coloring Book of Cards and Envelopes: Christmas Illustrated by Rebecca Jones

A hands-on holiday activity book featuring tear-out cards and envelopes that children can color and customize for friends and family.

Buy on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2kk4QKZ

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Adventures in Numberland

Adventures in Numberland – a story of numbers in life and in business By Paul Georgiou

A story-driven introduction to numbers, business concepts, and practical math applications. This book is best suited for older children and tweens.

Buy on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2iWtJfN

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The Gift of Gift

The Gift of Gift By Sanjay Nambiar, Illustrated by Sedi Pak

A heartfelt story inspired by real events that introduces children to global compassion and giving. Proceeds from the book support children’s health initiatives through World Children’s Initiative.

Buy it on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2kLpHHA

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Tips for Making Reading Challenges Successful

• Break reading time into short daily sessions

• Mix fiction, nonfiction, and activity books

• Let kids choose books based on their interests

• Track progress visually with a chart or log