Virtual Summer Reading
Where It Pays To Read
Reading Rewards Program: Where Reading Pays Off
The Peaches and Sourcream Children’s Foundation (PSCF) is excited to introduce our virtual summer reading rewards program designed to enhance reading and writing skills and foster reading stamina in children. Here are the program details:
Program Overview:
- Participants are required to read from Monday through Friday for a dedicated twenty minutes each day.
- Books will be provided by PSCF's program director, ensuring a wide selection of engaging reading material.
- Our primary focus is to create enjoyable reading and writing experience for children.
Creating the Perfect Reading Environment: We recommend that parents and individuals working with readers create comfortable reading spaces or nooks to minimize distractions.
Timing Matters: We suggest ending reading sessions before 7 pm to allow time for participants to log in and post summaries. Each well-written summary is worth $1.00.
Summary Writing Guidelines: Participants must write about what happened in the beginning, middle, and end of each story.
Rewards and Benefits:By participating in our program, children can enjoy various benefits:
- Reading for pleasure.
- Expanding their vocabulary.
- Developing comprehension skills.
- Enhancing their writing abilities.
- The opportunity to earn up to $20.00.
- The chance to choose a book of their liking, with PSCF covering the purchase, shipping, and handling costs.
Important Notes:
- Notification regarding the online orientation will be sent one week before the program begins.
- For any questions or concerns, please contact our program director, Mrs. Robin Muldor-Engram, at 267-683-0899 or robin.muldor@gmail.com.
Required Information for Application:
- To register, there is a $25.00 non-refundable application fee
- A committed parent or adult who can facilitate reading sessions.
- Parent or responsible adult’s cell number and email address.
- Photo release forms.
- High-resolution photo of participants.
- Join us in fostering a love for reading and writing and reaping the rewards of a well-nurtured literacy journey. We look forward to sharing in your child’s summer reading experience.
Help Our Cause
Your generous donations empower our organization to craft delightful reading experiences and offer books and other gifts to the children we serve. As a rapidly growing 501(c)(3) non-profit operating on a modest budget, your contribution will directly impact our young learners. Your donation will enable us to provide BOOKS ,essential school supplies, fresh uniforms, engaging books and nourishing food baskets.
REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED
2025 Color Our World With Reading!
We are delighted to announce that we have reached our quota ahead of schedule. As a result, registration closed before the original April 30th deadline. Thank you for your enthusiasm—see you next summer!
~Robin Muldor-Engram
Reading Into The Future: The Impact Of PSCF’s Summer Reading
Turning the Page on Summer Reading
Transforming the way children read—by reading with them.
As we approach our sixth summer reading cohort, Coloring It With Reading, we reflect on the meaningful progress we've made over the years.
In Summer 2020, we launched with 25 enthusiastic young readers, eager to share their stories under the theme Imagine Your Story. It marked the beginning of our mission to foster a love of reading and build home libraries.
In 2021, another group of 25 children found their voices through the empowering theme Reading is a Superpower. The program’s success inspired donors and supporters, resulting in increased funding and momentum for growth.
By 2022, this support fueled the expansion to our third cohort of 50 readers under the theme Oceans of Possibilities. The impact was so profound that in 2023, the program grew to include 75 readers across 21 states under the banner All Together Now.
In 2024, enthusiasm soared. With broader visibility and growing financial support, we served 80 students—despite a waitlist of 25.
Though 2025 brought financial challenges amid national political shifts, our faithful supporters remained unwavering. Despite reduced funding, we can proudly continue our mission to Color Our World With Reading with 24 returning readers in our sixth year of Summer Reading Rewards!
Transforming the way children read—by reading with them.
Transforming the way children read—by reading with them.
In just four weeks, we help transform children’s reading habits—by reading with them. While PSCF isn’t alone in distributing books to address the literacy crisis, our approach sets us apart: we commit four weeks each summer to ensure the books we give are read and enjoyed—not forgotten in a drawer or tossed away.
At PSCF, we believe real change begins with meaningful engagement. That’s why we don’t just hand out books—we share stories, spark joy, and cultivate a lifelong love of reading.
Buddies and Books: A Parent’s Role in Raising Readers
Who says parents don’t understand?🙃
At PSCF, we proudly affirm that our parents do more than understand—they get it. They recognize the critical importance of reading and, even more significantly, they understand that their active engagement in their children’s reading journey directly impacts academic success.
Our parents are not only supportive—they’re committed. For four weeks, they devote time and energy to transforming their children’s reading habits. Yes, they work, cook, clean, shop, and do whatever it takes to care for their families—but they also know that reading isn’t just fundamental; it’s essential.
We understand the challenges—books can be costly, time is limited, and motivating young readers takes heart. That’s why PSCF steps in to shoulder the load: we purchase the books, provide a reading schedule, and offer incentives to celebrate progress.
Our mission is clear: to make reading a consistent part of children’s lives—transforming it from a task into a lifestyle. We believe that every book read is a stepping stone toward success and a barrier against negative outcomes, including the school-to-prison pipeline.
We are proud of our parents—the champions who truly understand.
How a Village Fosters Lifelong Reading Habits
Does It Really Take a Village? 🛖
Yes, it truly does. Human beings are inherently social, learning primarily through sight and sound. Children, in particular, are natural imitators—eager sponges who seek validation and guidance to ensure they’re on the right path. This is why the environment and the people surrounding a child from birth to age five play a crucial role in shaping their development.
At the Peaches and Sourcream Children’s Foundation, we are fortunate to work with parents who understand the power of a collective effort. During our four-week Summer Reading Rewards Program, the energy is palpable. Entire families—parents, siblings, and grandparents—embrace the role of reading buddies, sparking joy and comprehension in young readers. Even babysitters join in, helping to maintain the momentum.
Research shows that habits are formed through consistency—typically within 18 consecutive days. Our program is designed to harness that science, transforming reading from a task into a lifelong habit, and ultimately, a lifestyle.
Smiles, Stories, and Stronger Readers
Smiles, Stories, and Stronger Readers
Who says you can’t find joy in reading? Joy means being happy, relaxed, and letting your imagination run free.
The Peaches and Sourcream Children’s Foundation (PSCF) is on a mission to spark that joy by turning reading into a lifestyle. Each summer, PSCF hosts a four-week virtual book club designed to foster shared and guided reading experiences. During this time, children are paired with their parents as reading buddies and explore a diverse selection of texts provided by the foundation.
The goal? To make reading a fun, everyday habit—whether that’s perched in a tree with a book or pausing at the park between slides. PSCF creates space for creative and collaborative engagement, making books leap off the shelves and come alive in the hearts and minds of young readers.
At PSCF, we believe reading can—and should—happen anywhere. There truly is joy in reading.
Welcome Cohort #6
.
Seven Years Strong, Six Cohorts Empowered!
It’s Our Anniversary!
Seven Years of Service | Six Years of Cohort Impact
Based on our research, PSCF is the #1 online, family-based literacy program in the country!
What does that mean?
We’ve revolutionized how children read, shifting from traditional classroom-based instruction to empowering literacy from any room in the home. Through social media and ongoing engagement, we’ve built a virtual village where children practice reading and writing in a safe, supportive environment.
You’ll see more than just children reading, you’ll see the real champions behind the scenes: PSCF’s dynamic parents, deeply committed to their children’s academic success.
We Don’t Just Give Books, We Get Them Read.
Many programs distribute books. PSCF ensures they’re read. We created our very own online summer literacy class to fight summer learning loss, and it’s working!
PSCF Summer Wall of Fame! 2025
We are proud to announce that Summer Reading Rewards Cohort #6 has been our highest-performing group to date! We attribute this success to our intentionally small, handpicked group—and, most importantly, to the unwavering support of their highly engaged parents.
This cohort achieved 100% participation and an impressive 87.5% completion rate. Every child submitted at least seven summaries, and 21 participants completed all 20 required summaries, including those who submitted late.
Across the board, we saw tremendous growth in every child. From early anecdotal notes highlighting areas for improvement to their final submissions, students demonstrated care, noticeable improvements in penmanship, stronger reading comprehension, and greater writing quality. Their enthusiasm was evident, and families consistently supported their reading journey—something truly worth celebrating.
Today, we especially commend the seven students who met our highest standards of consistency, effort, and excellence.
Congratulations to them! 🎉
Books That Matter: Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number
When It Comes to Reading, Age Ain’t Nothing But a Number
Little Chelsey joined the Peaches and Sourcream Children’s Foundation Summer Reading Rewards Program at just two years old. She took a break and returned this summer (2025) at age four,more confident and expressive than ever!
Even at two, Chelsey had impressive recall. With her mother’s prompting, she could share bits and pieces of the stories read to her. At that time, she couldn’t spell or write her name,but today, she can!
During Zoom meetings, Chelsey eagerly shares her favorite parts of stories. When asked about Worms and Caterpillars Are Friends, she proudly said, “The caterpillar turned into a butterfly.” And when asked the color of the butterfly? “Rainbow,” she beamed.
During a “share your favorite story” session, Chelsey chose Be Kind, explaining that she wants people to be kind. What made her answers so special was the confidence behind them.
This is the power of starting early. Reading to children in their toddler years not only builds comprehension and vocabulary, it nurtures confidence, curiosity, and a voice of their own. So if you're wondering whether infants or toddlers are too young to learn, absolutely not. The earlier, the better!
Books That Matter: Nonfiction and Standardized Testing
Making Real Life Connections
Interestingly enough, today's book was really relatable for us.
Last week, we noticed what we thought were bees attempting to bore a hole in the side of our concrete-walled house. Well, we learned it was yellow jackets and not bees. They are similar in some ways, but it was also nice for Joe to see pictures up close to compare and contrast.
I enjoy the nonfiction books because, time and time again, when standardized test scores come out—this is the area where many children are drastically underachieving-
Thanks for all you do.
Books That Matter: A Mother’s Story
Good evening,
Today's book was truly inspiring, and I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude.
When Josiah was younger, he took a bit longer than other children his age to begin speaking. Once he did, I noticed early on that something wasn't quite right. He was eventually diagnosed with a speech impediment that affects his ability to pronounce words clearly. Over the years, he has been receiving speech therapy services and has made significant progress. He's become more confident, though he still tends to be quiet or hesitant in unfamiliar environments or larger groups.
One of my greatest joys is hearing him interact with friends and family members whom he trusts and feels connected to. When he was much younger, he was sometimes teased for "talking funny," which broke my heart. As a parent, I make it a point to remind him daily that he is fearfully and wonderfully made in Jesus Christ. I also help him focus on the areas where he shines, like Math, to continue building his confidence.
Thank you for your thoughtful selection of books. Josiah and I are truly grateful to be part of a community that values reading.
Warm regards, Ruth and Josiah
Pictured below: Josiah enjoying the book, The Boy Who Found His Voice, on the bus on his way to school.
A Reader's Joyful Reaction to Unboxing Her Books
A Reader's Joyful Reaction to Unboxing Her Books
This young reader's priceless joy as she unboxes her books with her mother is unforgettable.
Book Unboxing and Readers' Reaction
Book Unboxing and Readers' Reaction
A Reader's Joyful Reaction to Unboxing Her Books
Twenty-four children receive book boxes. A perfect group size for our Program Manager to connect with each child meaningfully.
Dear Parents,
Here you will find the guidelines for this year’s summer reading program. Click on each link to read about the requirements and expectations. For questions or concerns, click on the “Questions and Concerns” link to address any problems or share moments of celebration.
To sign-in for scheduled weekly Zoom events, please use your family number provided in your child/ren’s folders.
All Zoom meetings are mandatory: 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, & 7/9 at 6:00pm EST.
Summaries Submission Deadline:
Summaries should be submitted Monday-Friday by 7:00 PM ( EST) every day.
You have the flexibility to send your summaries between 7:00AM to 7:00PM (EST)
Click Here to Submit Summaries:
Engaging Children in Reading:
For Children Aged 6 to 7 :We encourage parents to enhance the reading experience for children aged 6 to 7 by starting with a "picture walk" before reading each book aloud. As you read, please use your pointer finger to guide your child in tracking each word. This simple technique helps your child follow along and understand where words begin and end. After reading, give your child the opportunity to illustrate and describe what they think is happening in the stories.
For Children Aged 8 to 10:Prior to writing, parents are advised to read and discuss the book with children aged 8 to 10 to ensure comprehension. Once this discussion is complete, encourage your child to write independently.
Welcome to our Zoom sessions!
( 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, & 7/9 at 6:00pm EST).
Each week, Zoom links will be provided in the morning of the respective event. During these engaging sessions, children will dive into the world of storytelling, focusing on the five titles of the week. We encourage children to express their unique interpretations of the story's beginning, middle, and end.
Important Notes:Attendance Policy: Attendance is mandatory with no exceptions
Additional Guidelines:
A. Reading Expectation: We expect each child to read one book per day to enhance their literacy skills
B. Missed Events: Please note that we expect all work to be completed.
Thank you for your cooperation, and we look forward to the exciting reading journey ahead!
Monday , July 14, 2025: 8:55AM
Dear Parents,
Following our Zoom session on July 10th, we received summaries for Love is Kind from all but six families, an impressive 75% completion rate! By Friday, July 11th, we closed submissions for So Much Slime, with only four families missing, raising the completion rate to an even more impressive 83%. Thank you for your hard work and commitment throughout the program!
A special thanks to those who have already submitted their reading logs and completed the end-of-summer evaluation forms. We’re currently reviewing your feedback to help us grow stronger and serve your children even better next summer. All feedback is welcome, especially constructive suggestions—as we work to improve for the benefit of our young readers.
Please remember: we cannot process your award envelopes until both your reading logs and evaluation forms are submitted. If you're unsure about what’s needed or have any questions, please reach out directly to Mrs. Robin. All forms are due by noon on Wednesday, July 16th.
Lastly, regarding the bankroll: as a program rooted in accountability, not penalties, we’ve decided not to make any further deductions from the balances shown below. Children rely on us as adults, and when they fulfill their part, we should be committed to fulfilling ours.
Thank you again for your partnership and support. Wishing you all a joyful and restful remainder of your summer!
Click here for the evaluation form : https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfUaJNAPGyEXJRuy1LXNAOSFf8sc50a4SMMbBpjJDeUEr4RIw/viewform?usp=header
Don’t forget to:
- Follow us on all social media platforms
- Leave a review on our Facebook page
- Mail a thank you card to our friends at Barnes & Noble Potomac Yard:
P.O. Box 441743, Fort Washington, MD 20744
Thank you for making this summer unforgettable. Until next year, so long, and keep reading!
With gratitude,
Team PSCF
💰 Bankroll
Check out the updated bankroll below.
(1.)Elizabeth A. $17.00
(2.)Alexander B. $24.00
(3.)Brooklynn B.$23.50
(4.)Mychael C.$20.50
(5.)Myles C. $20.50
(6.)Chelsey C. $14.25
(7.)Dream D. $13.25
(8.)Dasha E. $18.00
(9.)Josiah F. $15.50
(10.)Bryanna G. $23.00
(11.)Kennedy H. $10.50
(12.)Shiloh K. $19.50
(13.)Jonah K. $7.50
(14.)Zola K. $20.25
(15.)Keirhen- Lee C. $22.00
(16.)Kissakye L. $23.25
(17.)Joseph M. $21.50
(18.)Joshua P. $11.00
(19.)Ashley R. $9.25
(20.)Lindsey R. $21.00
(21.)Preston R. $22.50
(22.)Eli T. $15.75
(23.)Leia W. $23.75
(24.)Michael W. $23.50
Click link below to submit questions and concerns
English: All questions can be posted here from 8:00am to 7:00pm (EST)
Español: Todas las preguntas se puedenpublicar aquí desde las 8:00 a.m. hasta las7:00 p.m. (hora del este).
Dear Parents of Summer Readers 2025, to enrich your family's summer reading experience and foster collaboration, we've provided this question and comment section to address any immediate issues and celebrate progress in real time. We welcome your feedback. Click the link below⬇️ to send your comments, and someone will address them between 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM daily.
We Are A Community of Readers...
This year's picture day is July 2, 2025. Please capture photos from the waist up, and submit images of your child/ren wearing PSCF's "Color Our World With Reading” t-shirts by midnight on July 1, 2025, at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd8avrvgxknmRKX9UTRCGN0pwi1orQ7ut_SctRSBVv1lK64Ew/viewform?usp=sf_link
Please note that a $2.00 deduction will apply for late submissions (after 12:00 am).
Submit candid pictures to https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd8avrvgxknmRKX9UTRCGN0pwi1orQ7ut_SctRSBVv1lK64Ew/viewform?usp=sf_link of your child/ren reading and writing sessions once or twice a week by Friday.
Enter your child/ren in the essay contest with a 2 to 3 -minute video expressing their summer reading experience by midnight, Sunday , July 6, 2025, to https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdiKf7xYWjzXGbyzZ8lzBdW8t0enFlDT0RGAz8gKZO0KFyK0Q/viewform?usp=sf_link , subject: video for ( provide child's name). Prizes include Air Force 1s. There will be a winner from each of the three age groups: ages 6 to 7, 8 to 9, and ages 10 to 12. ( Note: only children who have submitted 20 summaries and have met all stipulations will be considered.)
TIPS FOR CREATING A GREAT VIDEO ESSAY:
To help you craft a compelling entry for the video essay contest with the theme "My Summer Reading Experience with the Peaches and Sourcream Children’s Foundation, Inc.," ensure your video addresses all aspects of the topic:
- Duration: 4 weeks of summer reading
- Books Read: 20
- Summaries Submitted: 20
Include the following:
- Titles: Mention a few titles you enjoyed and explain why, as well as any you did not enjoy.
- Reading Time: Tell when and where you read and who assisted you.
Note:
- Length: 2 to 3 minutes
- Quality: Clear audio and video, original content, no copyright violations
- Structure: Clear introduction, body, and conclusion
- Technical Aspects: Good lighting and sound quality
Prepare by writing your video before filming, practice speech before filming. Before submission, make sure the video has high-quality visuals and sound.
Your input is invaluable to our growth process. 🌱 Please take a moment to complete the following forms:
a. Evaluation: Share your thoughts on your summer reading experience.
b. Book Request: Note, this year (2025) books were mailed early. Look inside your boxes
If your child would like to select a book to add to their growing home library, please submit your request form as soon as possible. This helps us process checks and book orders efficiently.
c. The Attitude of Gratitude: Last year, we asked for your support in creating heartfelt "thank you" notes for our sponsor, Barnes & Noble Potomac Yard. It was a success, and we're making it an annual tradition.
d. Reviews: If you believe our program can benefit other children and their families, please help us expand by writing a review on Facebook. You can start the process here: https://www.facebook.com/Peachesandsourcream/reviews
Please note that checks and books of your choice will be mailed to you upon receipt of the required items (a, b, c) as listed above. Thank you for your support and participation! 📚📝
