Does at home independent reading time feel like a chore? Are you having trouble getting your child to sit and read independently for the recommended amount of time? Maybe a special reading nook is what you need! A kid’s reading nook (or special reading corner) can be a special place to develop reading skills, promote literacy development, encourage the imagination, and foster a love of reading (the ultimate goal).
Reading is most successful when kids are engaged. Kids will be more engaged when they are interested and feel a sense of belonging and choice. Here are some suggestions of what to include in your child’s reading nook. Don’t forget to let them make as many of the choices as possible.
Note: All children are different. Check in with your child’s teacher to see how much time they should read independently. Also, check in to see if they can listen to stories online during independent at home reading time instead.
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1. Books for the reading nook
This may seem like the obvious part of a kids reading nook, but the right books are the most important part. Your child’s book selection should be matched to their interests. There are books out there for every type of reader and every topic of interest. Ask your child or your child’s teacher what books they like to read. Bring them to the library or a book store and let them look around at the child-friendly books. A child is going to be more likely to read a book they enjoy. There are so many engaging books out there for children, that reading does not have to be boring anymore! The less boring reading is, the better for a child’s literacy development. Need tips: check out my post on laugh out loud picture books or my storefront list of favorite chapter books!
2. Comfy (Flexible) Seating
My students always love to get comfy when they read. In the classroom I have a selection of pillows and small rugs. I have also used yoga balls and blocks. Kids prefer to read in the position that is best for them. Just like some adults read in bed and some sit on the couch and read. A kids reading nook is awesome when it has a special seating choice. They will often be able to read for longer (ie: build their reading stamina) this way. Comfy or flexible seating is great for sensory needs, attention needs, and just for comfort. So ask your child, look around the house, shop online, and see what awesome comfortable reading nook seat they want to try!
3. A stuffed toy or doll
Having kids read outloud is a great way for them to practice fluency (reading accuracy and expression) and monitor their reading for errors. Sometimes this is a bit intimidating for children. An awesome option for kids is to have a stuffed animal or doll they can read to in their kids reading nook. They can practice reading their story to their favorite fluffy friend. This will keep your child engaged with their reading and it will help strengthen their reading skills.
Note: if you have a patient pet (dog, cat, lizard, fish) you can have your child read to their pet. This is common at some libraries where they have therapy dogs come to visit and let children practice their reading.
4. A Visual Timer
A visual timer in a kids reading nook is beneficial for all parents and children involved! Have a timer that you can set to count down for the amount of time your child should be reading. With a visible timer, they can track their reading duration independently, eliminating the need to ask about time limits. If breaks are needed, simply pause and resume the timer. Empower your child to take charge of their learning journey and foster responsibility with the help of a timer in their reading nook.
Create a kids reading nook today!
Take the first step in creating a magical reading nook for your child! Share your home reading nook designs in the comments below. Already have one? I’d love to hear your child’s favorite part of their reading corner – share your story now!