According to Parents as Teachers, the benefits of reading to children cannot be overstated. Numerous scientific studies have shown that reading supports children’s development, including language, cognitive, social, and emotional skills. Experts recommend starting to read to children before birth and continuing daily for at least 20 minutes. Additionally, keeping books in the home not only encourages reading but also allows children to interact with and enjoy books throughout the day. One study found that children who grow up in homes with 500 books receive, on average, three more years of education than those raised in bookless homes.
This year, let's make reading an adventure more than ever! Whether you have a tiny bookworm or a reluctant reader, here are some fun and creative ways to make reading an exciting part of everyday life:
1. Make Reading Interactive
Bring stories to life by using different voices for characters, adding sound effects, or even acting out scenes. The more animated and engaging the storytelling, the more kids will connect with the book!
2. Create a Cozy Reading Nook
A special reading space can make all the difference! Set up a cozy nook with pillows, blankets, and soft lighting. Having a designated reading spot makes story time feel extra special.
3. Weave Books into Daily Routines
Make reading a natural part of the day! Read a short story during breakfast, enjoy a chapter together before bed, or bring books along for car rides and waiting rooms. These small reading moments add up and help you reach the recommended 20 minutes of daily reading.
4. Turn Stories into Play
Encourage creativity by acting out scenes from favorite books with stuffed animals, drawing pictures inspired by the story, or even putting on a mini play. It’s a great way to deepen comprehension while having fun!
5. Take Books Beyond the Page
Extend the reading experience by connecting stories to real life—visit places related to a book’s theme, try a recipe mentioned in a story, or do a fun craft inspired by the book.
6. Read, Rhyme, and Sing
Dr. Seuss knew it best—kids love rhythm and rhyme! Books with repetitive phrases, rhymes, or songs make reading extra engaging and help build language skills in young children.
7. Let Kids Choose Their Own Books
Kids get more excited about reading when they have a say in what they read. Whether they love silly books, adventure stories, or comics, any reading is good reading!
8. Make Reading Social
Reading isn’t just a solo activity! Enjoy stories as a family or join a local storytime event at a local library. We often share these on our Events Calendar. You can also check out our weekly story time on our Cuyahoga Parents Connect Instagram.
Celebrate the Joy of Reading!
Read Across America Week is the perfect time to spark a lifelong love of books in your child. Every story shared is a step toward raising a lifelong reader.
References
Parents as Teachers Parent Educator Resource titled "The Benefits of Reading"
Parents as Teachers Parent Handout titled "Reasons to Read to Your Baby"
About the Author:
Heather Sakai has been a member of the Bright Beginnings team since early 2022, serving as the Social Media Engagement Coordinator. She holds a Master of Science in Social Service Administration and a Master of Arts in Contemporary Dance from Case Western Reserve University. Heather brings experience in social work and mood disorders research, marketing and social media, as well as dance instruction for children and adults in both the United States and abroad. Passionate about connecting people through social media, Heather strives to make it a safe space to ask questions, be vulnerable, and share successes and struggles. She is also the administrator of Cuyahoga Parents Connect and warmly invites you to join if you are a parent or caregiver of a child from birth to kindergarten, or if you are expecting a child.