Help Provide a Book for a Child in Need #BeBookSmart

Disclosure: I received product and gift cards in exchange for sharing.

Did you know that thousands of children don’t have access to books? Something as simple as a book that so many of us, myself included, take for granted, so many kids don’t get the chance to experience. Books have always been my escape and ever since I can remember I have loved books. Now while I do still make time for books for myself, I am also constantly picking up books to inspire a love of reading in my own kids. I am so grateful that we have access to libraries and bookstores.

To help provide books for children in need, Macy’s has launched the Macy’s Be Book Smart campaign. Customers can donate $3 at any Macy’s register in-store and 100$ of those proceeds will go directly to Reading is Fundamental (RIF) to provide books and learning resources to children who need them most. Customers are not only giving the opportunity for children to build their literacy skills, but also the opportunity to experience the magic and power of books!

As a thank you, Macy’s customers get $10 off a purchase of $30 or more, PLUS 20% to 15% storewide for their $3 donations.

RIF has also just released the 2015 Multicultural Book Collection, which is funded in part by Macy’s. This is an amazing compilation of high-quality and engaging books for elementary-aged children. Each book incorporates at least one science, technology, engineering, the arts or mathematics (STEAM) theme while also emphasizing multiculturalism and diversity in content and character development.

Reading during the summer is so important to keep kids on track, and for kids who lack the resources such as books, the lack of reading and quality books can hurt literary skills up through high school. There is research that shows that 75% of students who read poorly in 3rd grade, a benchmark year for literary skill building, remain poor readers in high school. The key to helping children maintain or improve their literacy skills over the summer is providing access to lots of quality books that they can choose based on personal interests. When kids have lots of books readily available to them, they are more motivated, empowered and inspired to read. That is why Macy’s is committed to providing as many books as possible to children who need them most.

Here are some tips for fun activities you can play at home to engage your kids:

As a parent, you can help increase your child’s reading ability. Whether it’s playing games, singing songs or taking a trip to the local library – use this time to create new experiences together!

Have a “book-nic.” Grab a blanket, snacks and books to celebrate a beautiful summer day.

Use sidewalk chalk to make a mural with your family. Don’t forget to title your masterpiece.

Play easy work or rhyming games with your child.

Visit the library and check out books for the entire week – pick one about birds or insects and go on an adventure walk to see if any live in your neighborhood.

Reading is contagious – let your kids see you reading books, magazines and even cereal boxes!

Play the alphabet game by finding letters starting from A to Z while in the car or on a walk.

Looking for summer reading resources to help your own children avoid the summer reading slide? The Reading is Fundamental website has you covered!

Stay Connected:

Macy’s WEBSITE | Reading is Fundamental WEBSITE | Macy’s TWITTER | Reading is Fundamental TWITTER | Macy’s FACEBOOK | Reading is Fundamental FACEBOOK

WIN IT: (3) US winner will receive a $25 Macy’s Gift Card & (1) US winner will receive a 10-Book Mini Collection.

Need help entering a giveaway?  Check out my blog post for some help!

GIVEAWAY ENTRY:

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This Giveaway Ends July 10, 2015.