Reading Public Schools, the Reading Coalition for Prevention and Support, the Reading Recreation Division, Reading Public Library, and the Reading Police Department are launching the Let Grow Summer Independence Challenge. The challenge will run from June 21, 2026 through August 21, 2026, and is open to all children living in Reading or attending Reading Public Schools ages three and up.
This free challenge encourages children in Reading to build age-appropriate independence while staying active and engaged throughout the summer.
Inspired by similar work in Newburyport and by the Let Grow movement, the program focuses on building independence and reducing anxiety in young people. Reading’s work began in the fall, stemming from a community book club created and led by Barrows School Parents. The Reading planning committee was led by Jacquelyn Pelusi, Inclusion Specialist for Reading Public Schools, along with Erica Maillet from Reading Coalition for Prevention and Support, and Jim Sullivan from Reading Recreation.
According to child development researchers, opportunities for independent activity are important for building resilience and emotional wellness. When children solve problems on their own, they develop a stronger sense of agency, self-confidence, and executive functioning skills. Children who feel capable and confident are less likely to rely on unhealthy coping strategies.
“Growing children’s independence is truly one of the most important gifts we can give them,” says Alissa Gallegos, Barrows Principal.
The challenge invites families to take small steps that help children practice responsibility, confidence, and problem solving. Let Grow is designed to be flexible: there is no “right” challenge. For one child, independence might mean learning to tie their shoes. For another, it might mean making a snack or starting a lemonade stand.
“Some challenges are big. Some are small. What matters is taking one step toward greater confidence and independence,” says Jacquelyn Pelusi, Reading Public Schools Inclusion Specialist. “We are excited to bring this challenge to town; it’s going to be a fun summer in Reading!”
After completing a challenge, participants can fill out and drop off challenge slips at several locations around Reading to receive weekly prizes, including jump ropes, hacky sacks, toys, free pizza slice certificates from Pizza World and more! Each submitted challenge gains them entry into end of summer raffles, with prizes like: A ride to school with Officer Matt and Rusty in September, a free week of Reading Recreation camp in 2027, a sports basket, Principal for the Day at any Reading elementary school in September, and more to be announced.
How the Challenge Works:
- Families register once for the challenge
- Children complete independent challenges throughout the summer
- Challenges can come from the Let Grow activity ideas, our Reading-specific challenge list, or something created by your family
- Each completed challenge is submitted on a challenge slip at any of the turn in locations
- Children receive a weekly prize and earn an entry into our end-of-summer raffles for every completed challenge submitted
There is no cost to register and there is no minimum commitment. Complete one challenge or participate all summer long—every step counts!
Challenge Slip Drop-Off Locations
- • Reading Police Department/Reading Coalition for Prevention and Support Office
- • Reading Public Library Borrowers Service Desk
- • Recreation Division Office at Town Hall
- • Reading Public Schools Superintendents Office (near RISE Preschool)
Registration is free and open to all Reading families or families with children attending Reading Public Schools. Weekly prizes and raffles add motivation, but the main purpose of the program is to help children gain confidence, social skills, and the ability to navigate challenges. Register at Reading Recreation Division: Let Grow Challenge. Check out our Safety Guide. Information and updates can be found on the Let Grow challenge website.
