How to Make Reading Fun for Little Ones

Reading is a skill that we use every day.  Your child learning how to read is one of the most important skills that they will learn.

The challenge is getting your toddler interest in reading.  But once you do, they will be more excited to actually learn to read when the time comes.

I have a few tips to help with when to introduce reading, how to make reading more fun and what to do if your toddler won’t sit still.

This post contains affiliate links.  That means that if you use the link to make a purchase, I may receive a commision at no cost to you.

When to Read

At bedtime

Reading at bedtime is one of the most popular times for parents. Listening to a story is a great way for your toddler to wind down from a busy day.

It also gives you a chance to bond in a special way.

You may find that some toddlers also like for parents to read to them before a nap.

When your child asks

Sleep time isn’t the only time you should read to your child, though. You could set aside a time in the morning or afternoon to read a book.

If your toddler asks you to read at other times, did it if possible. There’s no such thing as reading to a child too much.

At the library

Many libraries have story time once or twice a week. Taking your child to these readings can pique her interest in reading.

Experienced storytellers have a knack for making stories exciting.  When your little one sees all of the other kids enjoying the story, it will make a positive impression.

How to make reading more fun

You don’t have to be a professional storyteller to make reading fun.

The one-on-one attention you give your toddler when reading to her is very valuable. It allows opportunities for interaction that they don’t get anywhere else.

Use different voices

When reading to your toddler, try using different voices for different characters.

You could also get Dad, Grandma, or Big Brother in on the act and have them do the voice for one of the characters.

Try finger puppets or props

If you can, try using finger puppets or props to make the story more exciting.

Anything you can do to get your toddler excited about story time is great.

Let them help

Try letting your toddler help you turn the pages.  Letting your little one get involved and help will them take more interest and feel more independent.

Get them involved

While you are reading, point out objects in the pictures.  Also, try asking her what the objects are or ask your little one to find specific objects.

To get your little one involved you can ask her what they think will happen next.  Or what they think of the characters.

Things like this will get your little one involved, and that’s one of the most important things you can do to instill a love of reading.

What to do if your toddler won’t sit still

Some children, especially very young ones, do not have the attention span required to sit through an entire story.

If this is the case with your child, don’t push. Read as long as they will listen, and save the rest of the story for later.

I used to get frustrated when my now five-year-old wouldn’t sit through a book that was five pages long.  I realized his attention span could handle it.  Now, we read long books together with no problem.

My two-year-old doesn’t sit through books for long.  He actually likes to play with toys or roam around the room while being read to.

If your child does this, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they are not listening. If they being fairly quiet, they probably are.

Reading to your toddler gives the two of you quality time together.

Making things fun and interactive will keep your little one interested in books. This interest will lay the foundation for a lifelong love of reading.

 

Books I love to read my little ones:

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This post is a part of the series 31 Days of Parenting Tips for Busy Moms With Young Kids.  Each day throughout the series I am discussing a different topic regarding parenting young kids. I’d love for you to follow along and share this series with moms who may need some support or just to hear that they aren’t alone in their journey of raising young kids.

Find all of the posts in one place on the series homepage: 31 Days of Parenting Tips for Busy Moms With Young Kids