Join the Washington Public Library for their Summer Reading Challenge and prevent the summer slide. KCII News spoke with Youth Services Librarian Jenisa Harris to learn more about the summer slide and why these challenges are important. “We really encourage the reading portion of summer reading because the summer slide is such a real thing. The kiddos can lose up to two reading levels over the summer to September. So just think of the library as a bridge from that time to September to get those kids into reading. If they read six books over the summer, their score goes higher in reading and math when they return to school.” Readers of all ages can track reading on the Beanstack App or on a paper bingo card. Separate bingo card challenges are available for toddlers and preschoolers, K-2nd grade students, 3rd-5th grade students, teens, and adults. The Bingo card challenges aren’t just about reading but include other fun activities like drawing or going for a walk. K-5th grade students can turn their first bingo card in by June 26th to receive prizes then it’s on to the bonus round Bingo card which must be completed by August 1st. Teens and adults have until August 1st to complete their first card.