Looking for fun things for your kids to do this summer? Summer programs can be a fun way to encourage your kids to read more, and they can even earn some exciting rewards and freebies along the way.

Some teachers call it the summer lull or the summer slide. Other teachers refer to it as the summer brain drain. Whatever you call it, it’s real – the summer brings with it a long break in learning.

A young reader holds up a “I Signed Up for Explore Summer” sign during last year’s kick-off event for Johnson County Public Library’s summer reading program. Registration is now open for the program, ...