Sara Hoffmann, School & Library Series Managing Editor, created a list of books to keep kids busy as we officially enter summer! Ideal ages for these books are from preschool through sixth grade.

Let’s Explore Cookies!

Interest Level: Preschool – Grade 2
What kind of cookies are your favorite? Chocolate chip? Snickerdoodles? Fortune cookies? These sweet treats are fun to make. See what common ingredients and steps are used in making cookies, and follow a recipe for No-Bake Super-Easy Cookies.

Mini Decorating

Interest Level: Grade 2 – Grade 5
Imagine a bookshelf that fits in the palm of your hand, a terrarium smaller than a tennis ball, and a bowl that holds just one drop of water. You can make each of these and more! Deck out your locker or decorate your bedroom without taking up too much space. Easy-to-follow instructions and detailed photos guide you through creating your own miniature decorations, dioramas, and figurines.

30-Minute Edible Science Projects

Interest Level: Grade 2 – Grade 5
Step-by-step instructions and photos guide readers through projects that introduce them to the science of food. While shaking up butter and cooking candy, readers will learn about molecules, matter, and taste with these fast and fun projects.

Toy and Game Projects: Making Slime, Flipping Bottles, and More

Interest Level: Grade 2 – Grade 5
Readers can make their own toys and games, like slime and a homemade harmonica, with these exciting projects. Step-by-step instructions and photos guide the projects, and Science Takeaway sidebars explain the science behind their creations.

Write and Record Your Own Songs

Interest Level: Grade 3 – Grade 6
Perhaps you’ve always dreamed about performing your music for others. Grab a mic and let’s get going! Share your music with family, friends, or even the whole world by writing a song and recording it. Learn the first steps in composing a hit song, then find out how to record your music and make it sound professional. Check out the handy Music-Making Checklist for tips and tricks as you get started. Are you ready to hit record?

Create Your Own Blog

Interest Level: Grade 3 – Grade 6
Do you love to write? Are you into self-expression? Blogging is a great way to share your obsession with travel, your passion for reading, or your unique thoughts about the world. The possibilities are endless when it comes to blogging! Learn how to get started as a blogger in just a few easy steps, and discover how to attract readers to your site and keep improving your posts. Check out the useful Blog Checklist at the end of the book for even more awesome tips and tricks. Are you ready to build a blog? Let’s dive in!

—

Looking for more books for the kids in your life? Check out our other lists!