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The Winter Reading Challenge 2026

Running from 10 January to 22 February, this challenge is aimed at and encourages children aged 0 to 12 to enjoy books, get creative, and have fun

Why Join?

  • Makes reading fun – The Pawfessionals and themed activities turn books into an adventure.
  • Flexible and achievable – Your child only needs to complete six challenges from twelve options.
  • Interactive experience – Collect stickers, solve a quiz, and share book reviews online.
  • Celebrate success – Earn a certificate and enter the Big Prize Draw when the challenge is complete.

How It Works

  1. Pick up a challenge sheet at your local Essex library from 10 January.
  2. Your child chooses six challenges from a set of twelve:
    • Blue Challenges: Reading-focused tasks.
    • Red Challenges: Fun craft activities.
  3. Collect Pawfessional stickers for each completed challenge.
  4. Solve the Library Quiz Word by finding hidden letters.
  5. Enter the Prize Draw!

Rewards

  • A Certificate of Completion for finishing six challenges.
  • Opportunity to enter into the Big Prize Draw for exciting prizes.
     

https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/digital-content/winter-reading-challenge/childrens-challenge?fbclid=IwY2xjawPPf5lleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA80MDk5NjI2MjMwODU2MDkAAR4U7GKDS5HHuI-HkI300DGbHBpNa9QpGaJHbTIV6g6W5MfZ0rY7EiRLje0bgQ_aem_Qc_reoQ7RTj4So6CFcWFaA