Last week I began a series about reading aloud to children. In my first post I wrote about why we should read to our children. This week I want to discuss where we should read to our little people.
Where we read to them? Does it matter — isn’t the sofa a good spot? Yes, of course. In our house we do most of our reading on the living room floor. It’s easy, convenient, and all three children have an equal opportunity to share Mommy’s lap.
But there are also times to shake things up a bit. To make memories and follow the “spark.” Special times to form new traditions and fill everyone’s love tanks.
Here are some ideas to add variety to your storytime locations.
1. Make it fun.
Photo by Anthony Kelly
Think outside the box. Read under the covers at night with a flashlight. Lounge in front of the fireplace. Throw a sheet over a table and make a tent. Dive inside with a pile of books.
Laugh. Snuggle. Enjoy.
2. Think cozy.
Have you ever considered creating a book nook? An awkward alcove in your home can be transformed into a unique reading area with just a bean bag or a few pillows. Children love special spots set aside just for them – it brings an atmosphere of magic and wonder to reading together.
Amanda Blake Soule of SouleMama recently created this cozy reading corner from a space at the top of her stairs.
3. Take it with you.
On a warm day, head outdoors with your books. But don’t pressure your children to read outside if they’d rather play. Just spread a few books out invitingly and see if anyone takes an interest.
Photo by Jamil Soni Neto
Last year on Easter Morning, we bundled up and headed to the chilly beach. Together on the sand we read the Easter Story, then let the children explore. I’m looking forward to continuing this new tradition on Sunday.
So branch out in your reading spots this week – make it work for you!
Where’s your favorite place to read with your little ones?
I love your idea of reading under the covers with a flashlight. Seriously, I don’t know why I’ve never thought of this. My 3 year old son loves reading and flashlights, he has them placed strategically throughout our home. He’s going to love this!
We read everywhere! But our favorite is on a blanket in the back yard or at the park on a beautiful day. Thank you for this post. : )
As a child I rarely went anywhere without a book in hand. Two of my favorite reading spots were the front porch (especially during thunderstorms or on summer evenings) and in the climbing tree. Car trips make great opportunities for read alouds or books on CD.