Foster a love of reading; give your kids a book nook

I have one daughter who loves reading and another, well, not so much. If you are looking to foster a love for reading in your children, creating a book nook is the way to go. Whether you have ample room or are working with limited space, I have some creative ideas to help you set up a cozy reading space. Plus, having a space to call their own has some added benefits too.

Creating a book nook for your kids can not only be a fun family project, but it's also a gift that keeps on giving. If you're thinking, "I hardly have space for another toy let alone a reading area,” don't worry – I've got some creative, space-saving ideas for you.

Corner Charm

Ever look at an empty corner and think, "What should I do with you?" Transform it into a cozy reading haven. Just a plush chair or a comfy floor pillow, a bookshelf at kid level, and a good lamp can convert that unused space into your child's favorite spot in the house.

Tent Adventure

Setting up a reading tent adds an element of excitement to your child's reading space. Cushions and a soft mat make it a comfortable spot for them to explore new stories. Add a flashlight and let the adventures begin.

Under-Bed Cave

If space is a premium, the area under a bunk bed can be a genius spot. Just add a curtain for privacy, some string lights and a soft rug to create a secret spot that's perfect for diving into books.

Closet Magic

As a Harry Potter fan, I love the idea of transforming a closet (under the stairs or not). Covert it into a cozy alcove by taking off the doors and adding some shelves and a chair. This becomes an instant book haven and a great way to repurpose unused space.

Play Couch Fun

Having a play couch isn't just for climbing and forts; it can be a versatile addition to your book nook. Stack it, arrange it as a seat, and place it near a small bookshelf. It's a playful and functional choice that your kids can adapt as they grow.

So, you may be thinking, “Why go through all the effort?”

Having their own reading space fosters a sense of independence in kids. It's a place that's theirs and theirs alone, giving them the autonomy to choose their books and delve into reading at their own pace.

Having a dedicated book nook also encourages more reading. The more inviting the space, the more your child will want to spend time there. And we all know that more reading equals better vocabulary, improved focus and a stronger imagination. For kids like my daughter who aren't naturally drawn to reading, a special space like this can make books more appealing and encourage them to give reading another try.

Lastly, this little nook can become a sanctuary for your kids – a place where they can retreat and explore different worlds, helping them to unwind and relax. It can be used for nap time and is also a fantastic tool for establishing a bedtime routine. A few pages before bed can make for easier transitions to bedtime.

It's a win-win situation for everyone, and the best part is, that it's doable no matter how much space you have and requires little to no expense. Let's roll up those sleeves and make some reading magic happen! 📚💖

Joelene Wolfe is a mom, actor, writer & marketer who recently moved to the Triangle from the NY/NJ area. She strives to live every day to the fullest and really enjoys helping others do the same. For the record, she never gets tired of being serenaded with the song, Jolene. You can follow Joelene on Instagram @joeyinthetriangle