There’s something magical about when your little one reaches for a book instead of a toy. As a single mum, I’ve spent the past decade juggling deadlines with dinnertime, always carving out a slice of the day for story time. During Book Week, I’m reminded of how my love for reading has shaped my daughters' imagination and our bond. From snuggling during a bedtime story to laughing at silly rhymes, reading to your child really transforms your home into a little universe of princesses, dinosaurs, and more princesses. It’s in these small, precious moments that we spark the love of reading in your kids, and lay the groundwork for lifelong curiosity, compassion, and confidence.
Instil a Love of Reading in Your Kids During Book Week
Literacy Begins at Home: Why Early Childhood Matters
Early childhood is a critical period for brain development, making it the perfect time to foster language skills and build the habit of reading. Whether it’s picture books for your kid or interactive books with flaps and textures, I learned that the key is to make reading engaging from an early age. When children see you reading, they naturally want to imitate your behaviour. We're not only learning about letters and sounds, but we also help them understand stories, use their imagination, and learn to see the world through someone else’s eyes.
No costume for book week yet? Our ideas for Easy Book Week Costumes You Can Make at Home will blow your mind!
Make Reading a Daily Routine, Not a Chore
Kids really do well with routine. If you slot reading into everyday moments, like after dinner or right before bed, it starts to feel like just another fun part of the day, not a chore. Set up a comfy little reading spot with some cushions and fairy lights, and before long, your little one will be begging for story time. Even just 10 minutes a day can go a long way.
Book Tip: “Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site” is a sweet way to wind down the night with your vehicle-loving toddler.
Let Your Child Choose: Encouraging Independence and Love for Reading in Your Kids Through Books
Allowing children to pick their own reading materials, from graphic novels to non-fiction animal books, gives them a sense of ownership and pride. It also helps them learn to love books that resonate with their personality. Remember, every child is different. What sparks one may bore another. The goal is to make reading feel pleasurable, not prescribed.
Book Tip: Try the “Little People, Big Dreams” series to inspire and empower kids with real-life stories.
Visit Your Local Library or Bookstore for Variety and Fun
Nothing beats a good wander through your local library or bookstore. The scent of new pages, the hushed excitement, the cheerful librarian ready with recommendations, it all adds up to a fun and enriching experience. Visit your local branch regularly to expose your child to a variety of books, from new releases to timeless classics.
Book Tip: “Possum Magic” by Mem Fox, an Australian treasure, is a must-read you’ll both cherish.
My Top Tip on Instilling a Love of Reading in Your Kids: Using Voices, Faces, and Gestures During Story Time
Want to really make reading sparkle? Get theatrical. Try using different voices for characters, facial expressions, or even acting out scenes. This helps with comprehension, holds your kid's attention, and turns reading together into a performance you both look forward to. It’s also a great way to get their little brains ticking, like when they start guessing what the characters might do next.
Book Tip: “The Gruffalo” by Julia Donaldson is brilliant for building drama with voice acting.
Encourage Your Child by Making Books Accessible
To encourage your child, books should be accessible. Keep them on low shelves, in baskets, or even in the car for impromptu reads. When children see reading as something that’s always within reach, not just a school thing, they’re more likely to enjoy reading for themselves. You can instil a love of reading in your kids simply by making books feel like a normal, everyday part of home life.
Book Tip: Board books like “That’s Not My Koala” are great for tiny hands and busy minds.
Create a Bond Through Reading Fun Activities
Take reading beyond the book by getting a bit hands-on—make a fun craft from the story, cook a recipe that pops up in the book, or draw your favourite scene together. It helps the story stick, makes it feel more real, and turns reading time into even more playful memories.
Book Tip: Read “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” then help your toddler create a fruit collage from the story.
Raising a Lifelong Reader: A Gift Beyond Academics
Helping your kid fall in love with books isn’t about chasing top marks—it’s about raising a curious, kind, and resilient little human. A lifelong reader is someone who questions things, dreams big, and sees the world from different angles. As a mum, I know these story-filled moments we share now will shape how my daughter thinks, feels, and connects with others down the track.
Book Tip: “The Paper Bag Princess” by Robert Munsch flips the fairytale script and encourages critical thought and independence.
Final Thoughts: Instil a Love of Reading in Your Kids During Book Week
As mums, we're always looking for ways to juggle it all—but honestly, sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is just curl up with your kid and a good story. When you make reading a daily habit, you’re not just helping with school stuff. You’re creating memories, growing their empathy, and giving them a way to make sense of the world—one page at a time. So head to the nearest library, select books that align with their interests, and remember: it’s never too early (or too late) to nurture a love for reading in your kids.
Happy Book Week, and happy reading!
