Struggling with storytime? Here’s how to make reading fun for kids: with easy, playful ideas to build their love of books one magical moment at a time

Why is it that the reading moments with our little ones never go according to how we see it in our heads (or how it’s portrayed in TV shows, movies and other media for that matter)?

We all want it to be this magical, snuggly, joyful part of our family’s life. 

But let’s be honest: sometimes it feels like more like a chore (for both kids and parents).

There is some good news, though… Reading can be fun! 

And when it is, our little ones are much more likely to fall in love with reading for life.

Here’s how to make reading fun for kids with a little more playtime in storytime…

Forget “should” — focus on “want.”

If reading even remotely feels like a chore (or even the dreaded homework), our little readers will run for the hills. 

So, instead of ticking off minutes or pages, try focusing on the experience. Create memorable reading moments by doing silly voices, making crazy sounds, or even pausing for a “What do you think happens next?” (This one’s a gold mine to keep little ones invested and intrigued in the story). 

When reading feels good, they’ll want to read more. 

It’s crucial to build this habit of reading for fun when they’re still young. Less than 35% of 18-year-olds surveyed in the UK have said they enjoy reading in their spare time.

Play with books.

The story doesn’t have to stay on the pages. 

Act out the characters, make up different endings, or turn their favourite book into a treasure hunt or a drawing session like “Can you find a certain item on the page?” and “Let’s draw this key character or setting…”

Reading is just one part of a much bigger learning adventure!

Let your little readers choose.

This seems so obvious, but in trying to ensure we build and maintain a regular reading habit with our little ones, we tend to grab the first book we can.

But kids are so much more excited to read a story when it’s one they’ve picked themselves.

In fact, 88% of kids say they are more likely to finish reading a book they’ve chosen themselves. Wow.

Just roll with it, even if it’s reading their favourite book for the millionth time or the tenth book about dinosaurs or fairies this week.

Celebrate every tiny win.

Have you seen your child flipping through a book (all on their own)? Or retelling a story in their own words? 

Congratulations, that’s reading magic in action. Go ahead and praise their effort, not just the end result, and watch their confidence grow day by day.

Remember, “fun” doesn’t have to look picture-perfect. 

It’s these tiny, magical moments that build a lifelong love of books. 

So, why don't you just try adding one of these playful twists to your next storytime? Who knows, you just might be surprised at how your little reader responds…

Looking for new stories to make reading even more fun? Right now, you can grab your first 3 books for free, or unlock lifetime access to the full Nooksy collection for your whole family — all for 90% off.

Come explore the Nooksy library of children’s books made for giggles, wonder, and connection…

I've you've got a struggling reader in your home, check out: How to start making reading fun for struggling readers.