Tips for Nurturing a Love for Reading in Your Young Child
By Morah Amy Senna
There’s something magical about reading with a young child—the way their eyes light up at colorful illustrations, their giggles at a funny story, or their curiosity when they encounter new ideas. Fostering a love for reading in your little one is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. It not only nurtures their growing minds but also creates cherished moments of connection between you. Whether you’re snuggling on the couch with a favorite book or discovering a new adventure together, the journey of reading is as beautiful as the stories themselves.
Read to your child every single day
Make reading a fun part of your naptime and bedtime routine.
Find spontaneous times throughout your day/week to sit down with your child to read.
Ask family members to read with your child - great opportunity for older siblings to practice their reading!
Model Reading
Reading in front of your child sets a great example!
Limit your time with screens and pick up a book instead of scrolling!
Model reading for pleasure, information, prayer, knowledge, etc.
Location is not important
You don't need a fancy reading nook in your home because reading can happen anywhere!
Snuggle up on the sofa, in bed, on a picnic blanket outside, on a bench, in waiting rooms, etc.
Create a space for books in every room of your home - accessibility is key!
Don't forget to always pack a book or two when you're heading out the door!
Captivate your child’s interest
Allow your child to choose books based on their current interests.
Balance exposure by offering a wide variety of genres to spark curiosity.
* examples: social stories, chapter books, jewish books, seasonal stories, fairytales, etc.
Make reading interactive by using expressive voices.
Take this opportunity to connect, have a conversation, and dive into a book together!
Understand the Benefits
Develops language skills
Builds vocabulary
Phonemic awareness
Letter and sound recognition
Builds fluency
Improves listening skills
Builds concentration
Increases knowledge
Fosters imagination
Prepares for writing and reading
Encourages comprehension
Nurturing a love for reading in your young child is about more than just books—it’s about creating a world filled with curiosity, wonder, and connection. By making reading an intentional and joyful part of your daily lives, modeling your own love for books, and encouraging exploration through stories, you’re setting the stage for a lifelong passion for learning. So grab a book, find a cozy spot, and let the adventures begin—one story at a time.
