Let’s face it, as wonderful as modern technology is, it sure can rival reading in the minds of our children. With that said, it is extra important that children are encouraged to read in more ways than one. As motivating as reading incentive programs, personalizedΒ books,Β and family reading time may be, sometimes nothing quite beats the power of a warm and comforting environment to bring about the desire to curl up with a good book. Looking to encourage a little “reader” of your own? Learn how to create the perfect reading nook below!
Cozy Quarters
Ever try to get lost in a book while seated in an uncomfortable position or on a hard surface? My guess is that you didn’t have much success. That is why the first crucial step to creating your kiddo’s reading nook is to ensure comfort.
When creating my kiddo’s nook, I chose to incorporate a soft furry rug, mixed with colorful pillows. Additionally, I made sure that the location was in the corner of a room (and near good natural light). (A similar rug can be found here. The pillows I quickly created at a fraction of the cost using my pillow slipcover tutorial here.)
Other fun ideas include a Kids TeepeeΒ or Playhouse.
Direct Book Access
It is hard to encourage your kiddos to read without books handy and always within reach.
When creating my kiddo’s nook, I chose to surround the location with books. Along the wall and within the bookcase, I continuouslyΒ switch out classics from my daughter’s collection. Additionally, on the ground and within a basket, I place all library books from our most recent library field trip. (Note: if your family is at all like ours and check out library books by the dozen, then it is nice to have a separate location where all books can gather in one spot and not get lost within those you own).
Similar wall bookcases can be found here and here.
Accessibility
Last but not least, what good is a perfectly cozy reading nook complete with an endless supply of books going to be if it is nowhere in sight? Make sure that your kiddo’s reading nook is in a location where they are likely to see it and thus enjoy it several times a day. In other words, don’t be hiding your reading nook in an upstairs closet or down in your basement (unless of course, you spend regular time in either location).
When creating my kiddo’s nook, I chose to place it in the corner of our playroom right off the main family room. Now whenever my daughter is playing or wanting to be nearest to us, she is likely to head on over to her reading nook.
Above all else, nothing quite beats leading by example. Once the cozy reading nook is complete, make sure to occasionally join your kiddo for story time!
ShootingStarsMag says
I’ve always loved to read but I know it’s tough to get some kids interested, so this is a nice idea! I’d love my OWN reading nook. π
-Lauren
#happynowlinkup
Lindsay says
Thanks so much!
Victoria @DazzleWhileFrazzled says
My 8 year old has created her own reading “couch” in her room involving rubbermaid containers and a whole bunch of pillows. It’s definitely “creative”! I need to find a way to add my own touches to it, lol. Visiting from Coffee and Conversation party.
Lindsay says
That is amazing! I love young, creative souls! π
Courntey @ Pop It Up Girl says
This is precious! Makes me want to grab a book too!
Lindsay says
Yay! π Thanks.
Leslie says
I always wanted to create a reading nook for my kids, but unfortunately their room is just too small. This nook is just too cute, though, especially with the chalkboard. Thanks so much for sharing at the #happynowlinkup!
Lindsay says
Thanks so much, Leslie! I too struggle with the space issue. The beauty of this nook is that it is rather tiny so all you need is a corner :).
Barbara says
What a great idea! I used to read on my bed when I wanted some time to read in solitude. I would have loved a reading nook like this.
Lindsay says
Reading on your bed can often be equally enjoyable π
Angela Boone says
Your reading nook is so cute! Love this!
Lindsay says
Thanks, Angela!
Marie says
What an adorable reading nook! I love the wall organizer. A perfect way to display all of those fun and colorful picture books.
Lindsay says
Thanks so much! π I purchased it from a garage sale and gave it a facelift :). Originally found at Pottery Barn Kids.
FLORENCE says
Lindsay, I applaud encouraging your child to read! I remember my mom and I reading when I was little and what a special time it was for me. That did encourage me to read, a lifelong habit I’ve enjoyed. Love the little nook you’ve created for your daughter! It looks so comfy! Thanks for sharing at Sweet Inspiration!
Lindsay says
Thank you for sharing this, Florence! Such a special memory you have and I am hoping to instill the same in my daughter! π
Becky says
This is so cute and so SIMPLE! Love.IT!
Lindsay says
Thanks! π
Theresa @DearCreatives says
I helped my daughter make a reading nook in their playroom. Love how your nook turned out. Thanks for sharing this with us at the Inspiration Spotlight party. Pinned & Sharing
Lindsay says
Thanks, Theresa! I love that you did the same :)!
Rebekah Purnell says
WoW! Itβs an amazing idea. I have a plan to make DIY reading wall that will be colorful and natural photo with text.
Lindsay says
I love that idea! Feel free to link to it here when done, Iβf love to see it!