WASHINGTON — Summer vacation is something kids love, but parents might worry children will lose some of their newfound reading skills.

Libraries in the region know that, and offer programs so kids don’t suffer the dreaded “summer slide.”

At libraries in Montgomery County, Maryland and Arlington County, Virginia, families can sign up for Beanstack. The program offers suggestions based on patrons’ interests. Kids can earn badges and prizes as they track their summer reading.

There also are other things to do in a library setting. In D.C., kids can learn to play chess, sharpen computer skills and there’s even a special story time for the littlest literary fans, who can bring stuffed animals, come in their PJs and enjoy a bedtime story.

For more information on Beanstack, check out the Montgomery County Public Library site.

Check your local library to see what’s offered:

• Alexandria
• Anne Arundel County
• Arlington County
• Fairfax County
• Falls Church
• Frederick County, Md.
• Loudoun County
• Montgomery County
• Prince George’s County
• Prince William County

WTOP’s Kate Ryan contributed to this report.