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Summer Learning Challenge 2017 Sneak Peek—and GIVEAWAY!

We’re excited to announce the list of events for the 2017 Summer Learning Challenge!

This summer, more than 100,000 children will leap into learning through Super Explorers!, the superhero-themed 2017 Summer Learning Challenge at Chicago Public Library.
The Summer Learning Challenge was redesigned five years ago to combat “Brain Drain”—the term for the way most students fall behind in math and reading achievements over the summer break. A study by University of Chicago’s Chapin Hall showed that children who participated in CPL’s Summer Learning Challenge demonstrated 15% greater gains in reading and 20% greater gains in math when compared to their peers.
But the Summer Learning Challenge is more than just summer learning—it’s FUN!
This year, CPL has put together a full roster of superhero-themed events you won’t want to miss. Kids can meet the heroes of science and reading, learn about the science of their super-powered brains, jam along with performers at Summer Days Kids Music Concerts, meet super amazing animals, and so much more!
Events are separated by age groups, and put on frequently throughout June, July, and August, so you’re sure to find one (or more!) that fits your schedule. For the full roster of events, including dates, times, and locations, head here.

In addition to all the fun, and thanks to Library Foundation donors, the Library has an awesome giveaway for parents and kids participating in the Summer Learning Challenge!

The Summer Learning Challenge consists of three goals, which are:

  • READ 500 minutes or more over the summer. Read books, magazines, comics, eBooks, and audiobooks—all reading counts!
  • DISCOVER: Complete at least one hands-on activity. Try a STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) activity, attend a library event, or take a field trip to a museum.
  • CREATE: Make something! Make art, write a story, design something, or try out a new recipe.

Every child who accomplishes these goals will be entered into a drawing to win an eBook Reader. One eReader will be given away at each library location — that’s 80 eReaders in all!
Every parent/caregiver participating in the program will be entered to win a tech package consisting of a laptop, digital camera, and tablet, along with books to promote family learning. One tech package will be given away citywide.
The Summer Learning Challenge is made possible entirely through donations from people like you. A donation of just $25 allows 4 kids to participate in the program. In 2016, 102,000 Chicago kids were part of the Summer Learning Challenge.
Let’s top that number this summer. To become a CPL superhero and give Chicago kids the summer of learning and fun they deserve, donate here.
The 2017 Summer Learning Challenge is made possible thanks to generous Chicago Public Library Foundation donors, including the James & Madeleine McMullan Family Foundation, the Allstate Foundation, Boeing, Dr. Scholl Foundation, Helen M. Harrison Foundation, the Paul M. Angell Foundation, KPMG, William Blair, Macy’s Inc, RR Donnelly, PNC Bank, the Walter Heller Foundation, and Cubs Care, a fund of the McCormick Foundation.