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Summer Reading Events For Kids In LA

header 610 Students in pre-kindergartner class
(credit: Wendy Carlson/Getty Images)

Los Angeles has some of the best summer reading events for kids. Reading not only helps kids build self-confidence and better communication skills, but it also helps parents build a stronger relationship with their kids. The best kind of summer reading programs provide a healthy dose of edutainment (education with a splash of entertainment) that can easily be found at some of this summer's reading events for kids.

Emma, the labrador-retriever, listens to
(credit: Ute MEHNERT/AFP/Getty Images)

Kids Read to Dogs
Wilmington Public Library
1300 N. Avalon Blvd.
Wilmington, CA 90744
(310) 834-1082
June 13, July 11 and Aug. 8
www.kidspath.lapl.orgEncourage kids to read while being of service to the community. In this special reading program, kids enhance their reading skills while reading to therapy dogs. This dog-friendly environment promotes positive self-esteem for kids who have difficulties reading in front of classmates. The summer reading program often inspires children to go home and read to their own dogs which helps build their reading skills even further with more practice.

meltdown comics
(credit: Meltdown Comics)

Children's Comic Book Reading
Meltdown Comics
7522 Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 851-7223
June 22
www.meltdowncomics.comNicknamed "The Dreamweaver" by "Entrepreneur Magazine," children's comic book author Silva Mirzoian recently launched a new comic book series for kids aimed at addressing important youth-related issues. The new 24-page, full color comic book features Silva the Genie, a new hero in the comic book world advocating anti-bullying and fighting against cruel villains antagonizing children and teens while crushing their hopes and dreams. During a special guest appearance at Meltdown Comics, Silva the Genie will be doing a live comic book reading for children and teens. There will be refreshments, games, prizes and giveaways.

geffen playhouse
(credit: Geffen Playhouse)

Story Pirates Present The Flagship Show
Geffen Playhouse
10886 Le Conte Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90024
(310) 208-5454
June 29
www.geffenplayhouse.comThe Flagship Show, presented by the Geffen Playhouse Story Pirates, provides one of the most unique storytelling experiences that can be found in Los Angeles. Fun for the whole family, these Story Pirates bring to life a collection of stories told by the children themselves at the beginning of the show, turning wild imaginations of flying animals or furry tickle monsters into a musical sketch comedy show even parents will enjoy. Some say the show is a cross between "Monty Python" and "Schoolhouse Rock" since no two shows are the same. Rumor has it that the whole audience gets free ice cream at the end of the show. Get your tickets fast because this show does sell out.

Related: Best Swim Lessons In Los Angeles

Bright Horizons And Jumpstart Chicago Celebrate Read For The Record
(credit: Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)

Saturday Morning Stories & More
Children's Book World
10580 1/2 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
(310) 559-2665
Every Saturday
www.childrensbookworld.comSaturday-morning story hour can be a great way to start off the weekend for young kids. LA Parent and LA Weekly readers voted Children's Book World as 2012's "Best Children's Bookstore" in Los Angeles. Every Saturday morning features fun reading events for kids that includes special readings by authors, guest storytellers, story time with a musical twist as well as story-related arts and crafts. Every Saturday morning reading event provides an interactive reading program designed to inspire the imagination of young readers, stimulate reading and foster positive self-esteem.

LA Public Library
(credit: LA Public Library)

Teen Author Reading Night Series
Los Angeles Central Library
630 W. 5th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90071
(213) 228-7000
4th Thursday of every month
www.ya.lapl.orgHosted by young adult author Cecil Castellucci and Teenscape program director Mary McCoy, the Teen Author Reading Night Series features a panel of young adult and middle-grade authors reading and discussing their new books. Award-winning authors Francesca Lia Block, Racel Cohn, Ned Vizzini and Carrie Arcos will be a few of the authors that will have their work showcased and it's sure to be an educational and energized night.

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Niki Payne is a freelance writer covering all things Entertainment in Los Angeles. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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