Dear Reader,
What was your favorite book as a child? There is something special about snuggling up to a loved one and reading a book together. However, there is that turning point where reading can become a chore and the fun quickly disappears. Having experienced this first hand, it was not a fun moment and being shamed for not being a reader did not help the situation either. I am proud to report that this view towards reading can change! Although I was not a reader as a child, I am a very avid reader as an adult and have spoken to others who have gone through this same transition. This blog is written to inspire and start the conversation of how we can help our little ones maintain their love for books. As with the “Activities Beyond the Book” in the Bella Lucia Book Series, these are simply suggestions as you know what is best for your kiddo!
Allow room for play
While reading with your child, try creating voice and/ or sound effects and if your child is open to it, allow them to add a voice or sound too!
Another game to try is the “Children’s Author” game. If your child has had an author visit their school, ask them if they want to act out the visit by having you sit and listen to them read a book while they show the illustrations of their favorite book. Role playing is a great way for them to express their creativity!
Create a Safe Place
Set up a place in your home that is not only designated for reading but also a space where your child feels safe and understands that this is a special space for you. This area can be a corner of their room or play space. Maybe it is a tent or nook or simply a pile of cushions and pillows that you and your kiddo can’t resist cuddling into!
Create a Stuffed Animal Sleepover
How exciting is it for a child to walk into a room and see the stuffies in a different position? So why not have them reading books? After the kiddos are asleep, set up the stuffies so that they are reading books. It can be your child’s favorite book or even a new book that you are looking to introduce to them!
*Here is an article from one library that has hosted these sleepovers.
Set up a Reading Date with your kiddo!
Put a date in the calendar where you and your child set aside time to read together outside the house. This could be a trip to the library to pick out new books and read in the reading nook or a trip to your favorite cafe. As grownups there is something magical about reading in a coffee shop so why not with your little one :).
Coordinate an activity to accompany the book that you are reading.
This activity could range from a craft or sensory activity to practicing letters or numbers. This option gives your kiddo something to look forward to while also presenting an opportunity to talk more about the story you have just read.
When you are planning a trip, read books about the place you are visiting.
This gives your child a chance to learn more about the place you are traveling to while also presenting another opportunity to read together.
As mentioned before these are all gentle suggestions of how we can keep our little ones excited about reading. Having the skill to read opens the door not only to a sense of independence but the opportunity to connect further with loved ones.
Love Always,
Kristina Lucia xoxo