Building a Family Reading Routine
As we settle into a new year, many of us are still trying to get to grips with the shift back into routine after the festivities of Christmas. The holiday period is often a time of relaxation and indulgence, but now it’s time to find our rhythm once more. For some, this might mean tackling resolutions or setting goals for the year ahead.
Kal, the YOMU reading expert, is here today talking about something a little different for this year: starting afresh, rather than striving for perfection, I think you'll like what she has to say:
What better way to begin afresh than by nurturing a family habit that can create lasting memories and enrich everyone’s lives? I’m talking about reading together as a family.
As a Family Reading Advocate, I’ve seen first-hand how reading with children can positively impact not just their academic development, but also their emotional well-being. Families who read together bond in unique ways.
It’s not just about picking up books; it’s about creating a shared experience, one that encourages communication, imagination, and a deeper connection to one another.
This year, instead of making a resolution to change everything, why not start afresh with a reading routine that fits into your family’s lifestyle? It doesn’t have to be a rigid schedule, it simply requires the desire to carve out time each day for something enjoyable and beneficial.
So, how can you begin to build a family reading routine? It’s not as daunting as it may seem. Here are three simple yet effective tips to get you started:
Make Reading a Daily Habit
Consistency is key. Establishing a daily reading habit doesn’t require hours of your time, but making reading a regular part of the day will reinforce its importance. It could be as simple as reading for 15 minutes before bed or incorporating a story during breakfast. The key is to set a specific time each day that works for your family. Children thrive on routine, and by making reading a part of your day-to-day life, you show them that it’s something to be enjoyed and looked forward to.
Create a Cosy Reading Space
A dedicated reading area can make all the difference when it comes to encouraging family reading time. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate, a small corner of the living room or a cosy nook in a bedroom can be transformed with the addition of soft cushions, blankets, and a good reading light.
Creating an inviting atmosphere helps signal to children that reading is not just a task, but an enjoyable activity. Whether it’s snuggling up together in the evenings or curling up with a good book on a weekend morning, having a comfortable space for reading will make the experience even more special.
Choose a Variety of Books
One of the joys of reading together as a family is the opportunity to explore a wide range of stories, genres, and themes. From picture books to chapter books, non-fiction to fantasy, having a selection of books will ensure that every family member finds something to enjoy. Allowing your children to choose books themselves creates a sense of ownership in the reading process and encourages them to take an active role.
In my opinion, starting afresh in 2025 doesn’t need to be about unattainable goals. Instead, focus on something achievable and meaningful: building a family reading routine. By making reading a daily habit, exploring a variety of books, and creating a cosy space to read together, you’ll not only strengthen your family bond, but also instil in your children a love for reading that will last a lifetime.
So, this year, why not start afresh with the simple act of reading together? It’s a change that can make all the difference, not just for your family, but for your overall well-being.
Kallia
Kallia is the founder of the Reading Empowerment Hub, a family reading advocate & speaker. With a background as a teaching assistant specialising in reading interventions and phonics, Kallia has helped countless children and families discover the transformative joy of reading & fostering a lifelong love for books
