Try these fun summer book crafts that pair a sunny read with a creative activity. Perfect for summer vacation!
We love summer! It’s a season full of sunshine, free time, and outdoor fun. It’s the perfect chance for kids to enjoy good books and get creative.
If you’re looking for some creative fun for your kids, we’ve got you covered. Here are five summer-themed picture books, each paired with a fun and easy craft. These stories celebrate bikes, bugs, hikes, and warm evenings with friends.
After reading, kids can make something special using simple supplies you likely already have at home. It’s a great way to enjoy summer days—whether you’re inside or out!
These book and craft combos are perfect for slow mornings, quiet afternoons, or playful weekends. They encourage imagination, movement, and a love for reading—all while keeping little hands busy.
5 Summer Book Crafts for Kids
1. And Then Comes Summer by Tom Brenner, illustrated by Jaime Kim
This joyful book celebrates the best parts of summer—bike rides, lemonade stands, and long sunny days. Get creative: Make a batch of homemade playdough in bright colors, add some beads, buttons, and pom poms for sprinkles and play ice cream parlor!
2. Bikes for Sale by Carter Higgins, illustrated by Zachariah OHora
A charming story about two kids, two bikes, and an unexpected friendship that blooms through creativity and adventure. Get creative: Make a batch of lemonade to drink while you read this book, but save a few lemons to try printing with them to make bright, cheerful patterns!
3. Some Bugs by Angela DiTerlizzi, illustrated by Brendan Wenzel
This fun, rhyming book is full of creepy, crawly, buzzy bugs that kids will love spotting on every page.
Get creative: Use clay, pipe cleaners, and googly eyes to build your own silly bug creations!
4. Dusk Explorers by Lindsay Leslie, illustrated by Ellen Rooney
A warm and nostalgic look at the magic of summer evenings spent outside with friends. Get creative: Make a tissue paper lantern to light up your next backyard adventure!
5. The Hike by Alison Farrell
Follow three friends on a nature walk full of discovery, curiosity, and quiet moments. Get creative: Craft a pair of binoculars from toilet paper rolls and head outside to explore! And make sure to print out our nature scavenger hunt!
When you need a little break this summer, hit up the library and grab these books. Then spend an afternoon creating together!
More Summer Activities for Kids
- Check Out Our Summer Creativity Pack!
- 11 Ways to Have a Creative Summer with Kids
- 10 Fun Summer Sensory Bins for Kids
- 12 Best Summer Art Ideas for Kids
- The Ultimate List of Summer Crafts for Kids
- 5 Fun Spring Book Crafts for Kids
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