Summer 2024 Back to School Story Recording Contest
July 31, 2024
As the back-to-school season kicks off, we are excited to announce a special contest to celebrate and encourage reading aloud together. United Through Reading invites you to participate in our Back-to-School Story Recording Contest!
Why Participate?
- Reading stories aloud is a cherished tradition that connects families, strengthens bonds, and supports literacy development. Our contest is a fantastic opportunity to:
- Enhance Your Child’s Learning: Reading aloud helps improve vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills.
- Create Lasting Memories: Capture the special moments of sharing stories your family can cherish forever.
- Win a Prize: Participants can win an Amazon gift card just in time to finish their back-to-school supply shopping!
The Importance of Reading Aloud
Reading aloud is more than just sharing a story. It’s a powerful tool for back-to-school success. As children listen and engage, they develop stronger language skills and a love for reading that can last a lifetime. This practice boosts their confidence, making them better prepared for the academic challenges of the new school year. Moreover, it provides a soothing routine that can help ease the transition from summer to school. As part of Operation Story Time’s Mission RECONNECT, story recordings ensure military families connect through a daily reading routine.
Back-to-School Book Recommendations
To help you get started, here are some wonderful back-to-school-themed book titles suitable for all age groups. You can also browse our extensive curated book list. You can filter your search by Back to School books and School books.
Elementary School
The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg
Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten by Joseph Slate
Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes
Middle School
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea
Sideways Stories from the Wayside School by Louis Sachar
Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
The Homework Machine by Dan Gutman
High School
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
New Kid by Jerry Craft
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
Monster by Walter Dean Myers
Contest Guidelines
How To Enter
- If you’re new to United Through Reading, download our free app and create your account.
- Record Your Story: Choose a favorite book and record yourself reading it aloud. Feel free to get creative with voices, sounds, and expressions!
- Submit Your Entry: Make your recordings from August 1st to September 15th. One recording equals one entry. The more stories you record, the better your chance to win!
Prize
- One winner, chosen at random, will win a $50 Amazon gift card.
Rules
- Open to all new and current United Through Reading users.
- Recordings made through the app should be longer than 30 seconds to be considered a valid entry.
- Recordings must be uploaded by the close of business September 15th.
- The Winner will be notified within seven (7) days of the random draw selection, which will happen within three (3) days of the contests’ close. The winner will have seven (7) days to respond before an alternate is chosen.
This contest is not just about winning; it’s about fostering a love for reading, easing the transition from summer to school, and creating wonderful memories. Tag us on Instagram or Facebook using #IReadWithUTR so we can see what books you’re recording. Good luck, and happy reading!
