Kids love creating forts and clubhouses and having their own special spaces. A kids reading nook can be a cozy spot at home where they can enjoy all their favorite books. A reading nook is simple to create and needs little more than good books and a few pillows.
Why create a kids reading nook?
A reading nook gives kids their own comfy place for reading, and this dedicated space will encourage kids to read more.
Time spent reading is important – this is how kids build and strengthen their reading skills. As their skills grow, kids enjoy books more. They develop positive associations with books. Not only will a love of books help them grow into lifelong readers, but a higher level of reading proficiency will aid kids in their academic careers.
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Kids Reading Nook Essentials
Here is everything that you need to create the ultimate reading nook!
1. Books
Want your kids to read? Give them lots of access to reading materials. This includes books, magazines, and graphic novels. We know a few four-year-olds who love a series of graphic novels called Bird and Squirrel.
Where to get books:
Library: Don’t feel like you need to rush out and buy a bunch of books. The library is a fantastic resource. Kids can get their own library card and learn to be responsible for the book they check out.
Checking out books from the library is most successful if you go regularly and have a set limit for the number of books that your kids can check out. Each time you head to the library, kids are responsible for bringing back the set number of books they checked out. This will help you to avoid lost books and late fees.
Buy Nothing: You can also utilize your local Buy Nothing group on Facebook or the Buy Nothing App. These groups exist for people to gift items to their neighbors. People often post things they’re giving away, but you can also ask for items. People are more than happy to pass on books that their kids are no longer reading.
Book Subscription Programs: You can join a book subscription program to receive books regularly in the mail. This can be a great gift idea for kids when you’re looking to avoid more toys. VeryWell Family lists 8 of the best book subscription programs and gives excellent recommendations based on age. We also love Highlights magazine. They have various magazines for kids aged 0 up to 12.
- Protip: include a few audiobooks for kids to listen to on their Yoto player or TonieBox. Bonus points if you include a physical copy of the book so kids can read along!
2. Book Storage
Keeping the reading nook neat will help it be a peaceful space. Books storage doesn’t have to be anything fancy. A bin or small shelf can be a great place for kids to keep a few of their favorite books close and organized.
Make sure that books are easy for kids to access. If you use shelves, keep them low enough for kids to reach.
Not every book your own has to be stored in the reading nook area. In fact, fewer books can keep the space from feeling cluttered.
3. Good Lighting
Good lighting is essential for a reading space, yet it is often overlooked. Add some lights if you’re setting up a cozy reading nook inside a tent or under a canopy. It’s important to ensure that all lighting is kept away from cloth to avoid starting a fire.
Easy lighting options:
- Something like a rechargeable camping lantern can be fun for kids to use without much worry about fires. We love the inflatable lanterns from Luci. The lanterns are solar-powered, so you don’t have to worry about replacing batteries. We simply place ours on a window sill to charge when it’s not in use. Kids love having their own special light.
Luci Inflatable Lantern
- A rechargeable reading light can also be an excellent portable option that’s easy for kids to use. We have loved the Glocusent rechargeable reading light. Its battery lasts up to 80 hours, and it only takes an hour and a half to charge fully.
Rechargeable Reading Light
- A kids headlamp can also be a fun and easy lighting option. Check out the list of all our favorite headlamps for kids.
4. Comfortable Seating
Comfort is key for a successful reading nook. A special chair or a few pillows can go a long way.
A kid’s backrest reading pillow can be a great addition to a reading nook.
- Check out the list of our favorite reading pillows for kids.
Here are some comfy seating options:
Feeling in a DIY mood? Follow this tutorial to make your own kids reading bench!
5. Add a tent or canopy to make the reading nook extra cozy
Aesthetics are important when creating an inviting reading nook. Enclosing a reading area with a tent or canopy will make it feel extra cozy. Kids love having small spaces that are all their own. We find that corners with some draped fabric, the area under a table, a small alcove, or a kids tent all work well.
Here are some great tents and canopies for your kid’s reading nook:
A Waldorf playstand also creates a lovely and inviting space for kids to read. Silk scarves can be draped over the arch to create a canopy.
FAQS
1. What is a kids reading nook?
A kids’ reading nook is a dedicated space within your home designed to encourage children to read. It’s generally cozy, inviting, and filled with a variety of books suited to their age and interests.
2. Where should I create the reading nook?
The reading nook can be set up in a quiet corner of a child’s bedroom, playroom, or any other area of the house where there’s minimal distraction, good lighting, and adequate space.
3. What furniture is needed?
Essential furniture might include comfortable seating like bean bags, a small couch, or a cushioned chair, bookshelves, and possibly a small table. Ensure that the furniture is kid-friendly, with no sharp edges.
4. How can I make the nook inviting?
Add elements like colorful cushions, soft rugs, fairy lights, or themed decor to make the space appealing. Personalize it according to the child’s preferences.
5. What types of books should I include?
Include a variety of books that cater to the child’s age, reading level, and interests. It’s good to have a mix of educational and fun books.
6. How can I encourage my kids to use the reading nook?
Make reading a regular activity. You can schedule a daily reading time, join them for reading sessions, or even invite their friends for a group reading.
You’re now ready to create your own reading nook!
Remember, creating a great reading nook doesn’t have to involve anything too expensive or fancy, and you can always involve your kids in the process.
Once your reading nook is complete, give your kids lots of unstructured time each day to enjoy their new space. You can even model your own love of books by taking time to read where your kids can see you.
Have you built a kids reading nook at home or in your classroom?
Tell us about it in the comments below! What spaces have your kids loved?
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