Summer Reading Challenge and skills for life

Building the skills you need to succeed in life is vital to resilience. Reading is absolutely crucial as it opens up a world of learning. In Newham we're getting in there early to make sure children get the best start in life and reach their potential.

The National Summer Reading Challenge is back with adventure, fun, prizes and more for eager young readers. Newham children aged between four and 12 are invited to sign up to take part in this year's Story Lab to read six books over the summer holidays.

All participants have until 15 September to complete the challenge; earning stickers as they progress through bronze and silver levels until they have read six books, which rewards them with a gold medal and an invite to an exclusive celebratory event.

Children can read whatever they like - fact books, stories, joke books, picture books or even audio books - as long as they borrow them from the library. It's also a great way to meet new people - and build relationships with your neighbours for a more resilient community.

And the fun doesn't stop there! Libraries will be running weekly Story Lab activities such as movie nights, late night storytelling, musical weekends, craft sessions and much more. Every child who takes part also has the chance to win fantastic prizes including an iPad, cinema tickets and Olympic Park tickets!

Joining the Summer Reading Challenge couldn't be simpler; just head to your local library to sign up. All children must be library members to take part. You can even register at the Mayor's Newham Show on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 July at Central Park, East Ham E6.

See what's on at our libraries as part of the Summer Reading Challenge.