Summer reading and school programs

I really want my boys to be prepared so I am trying to determine the pros and cons and if sending the boys to the University of Alabama reading Program is the right thing to do this summer.  Do you spen $311 for each kid or let them enjoy being a kid and playing in the sun.  Are we pushing kids to hard? If I don't send him am I not doing enough?  So many questions to answer.  It is hard to be a good mom.