Plant A Seed Read: Perfect Summer Reading Song for Libraries!

Summer 2026 is bringing an exciting theme to libraries across the country, and if you’re planning activities for the iREAD “Plant A Seed, Read” summer reading program, you’re going to want this engaging musical resource in your toolkit.

Conductor Jack from the Zinghoppers has created an original sing-along song (written with his wife Kitty Norton) specifically designed to support the Plant A Seed, Read theme, and it’s quickly becoming a favorite among librarians, educators, and parents preparing for the summer’s reading initiatives.

Don’t miss out! Be sure to subscribe to The Zinghoppers YouTube channel and Conductor Jack’s YouTube channel!

Why Music Matters for Early Literacy

Research consistently shows that combining music with reading activities strengthens multiple developmental areas simultaneously. When children sing along to literacy-focused songs, they’re building language skills, strengthening memory, and improving listening focus all at once. The on-screen lyrics in this video add an extra layer of learning by supporting word recognition and print awareness, making it an ideal tool for group programs and family events.

What Makes This Song Work for Libraries

Created by Jack and Kitty Norton, classroom teachers who understand child development, this song hits the sweet spot for preschool and early elementary programming. The simple, repetitive rhythm keeps young children engaged while the imaginative lyrics encourage creative movement and participation.

The song’s structure takes kids on a journey through different scenarios: driving a bus like a pigeon, stomping like a buffalo fluffalo, and crawling like a hungry caterpillar. Each verse reinforces the core message that books can transport you anywhere and help your mind grow. The playful imagery connects perfectly with the gardening and growth metaphors central to the Plant A Seed, Read theme.

How to Use This Resource

This versatile video works in multiple library and classroom settings. Use it during summer reading kickoff events to introduce the theme, incorporate it into weekly storytimes throughout the summer, or share it with families as a take-home resource that reinforces reading habits at home.

The song’s length and energy level make it perfect for transition times or as an energizer between seated activities. The movement prompts built into the lyrics give kids a chance to get their wiggles out while staying focused on the literacy message.

Supporting the Whole Child Approach

Conductor Jack and the Zinghoppers use a whole child curriculum that promotes development across social, emotional, academic, physical, and cognitive areas. This song exemplifies that approach by combining physical movement, language development, social participation, and cognitive engagement with story concepts all in one activity.

For parents supporting summer reading at home, this song provides a fun way to build positive associations with books and reading. The catchy melody and simple lyrics mean kids will request it again and again, naturally reinforcing the reading message through repetition.

Planning Ahead for Summer 2026

Libraries planning their summer 2026 calendars should consider how music and movement activities like this complement traditional storytime and reading activities. Having age-appropriate, theme-aligned resources ready helps maintain engagement throughout the entire summer program.

Whether you’re a children’s librarian designing your summer schedule, a teacher planning end-of-year literacy activities, or a parent looking for educational content that kids actually enjoy, this Plant A Seed, Read song delivers exactly what young learners need: an engaging, movement-based activity that builds genuine enthusiasm for reading and books.

For information about booking Conductor Jack for library programs click here or to explore more educational songs and activities, visit thezinghoppers.com