How to Use Reading Time to Bond With Your Child

In our modern, hectic world, where time seems to slip through our fingers, finding genuine opportunities to connect with our children can be a daunting task. Yet, amidst the chaos, there exists a timeless and invaluable activity that has the power to foster profound connections: reading together. When you take the time to read to your child, you open the door to a world of imagination and cognitive development, all while creating a treasured opportunity for bonding. Here's how you can transform reading time into a cherished ritual that fortifies the bond between you and your child.

Reading can be a fantastic way to bond with your children

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A special reading spot can make story time super fun. Find a comfy corner in your home and make it into a reading nook with soft pillows, a cozy blanket, and good lighting. The key is to make this space inviting and comfortable. This dedicated spot will show your child that reading is a special activity you both enjoy. 

2. Make It a Routine

Make It a Habit Kids love routines. Make reading a regular thing, whether it's before bedtime, after dinner, or during a quiet time in the afternoon. This routine will help your child look forward to your reading sessions together and make reading a part of their daily life, which is great for their development.

Designate a cozy nook for your reading routing

3. Let Your Child Choose the Books

Let your kid be the boss of book picking! Whether it's an old favourite or the same picture book for the umpteenth time, their choice really counts. When kids get to choose what they read, they get super into it and pumped about the story. Their excitement totally amps up reading time for both of you!

4. Get Interactive

Make reading super fun by getting your child involved in the story! Ask them lots of questions about the characters, the story, and the pictures. Get them to guess what will happen next or to tell you parts of the story in their own words. These little interactions will not only help them understand the story better but also make them feel more engaged with the book and with you.

5. Use Different Voices and Expressions

When you read a story, try using different voices for each character and changing your expressions. It's like putting on a fun little show that can really grab your child's attention. Your excitement will rub off on them, making the experience even more special and enjoyable. Plus, it's a great way to help them improve their listening and comprehension skills by connecting different tones with various emotions and characters.

Don't be shy, be silly, be funny, be goofy

6. Relate the Story to Their Life

One effective way to enrich your child's reading experience is by encouraging them to relate the story to their own life experiences. For instance, if the book revolves around a visit to the zoo, you can discuss previous family trips to the zoo or even make plans for a future outing. By creating these personal connections, your child can gain a deeper understanding of and connection to the story, thereby fostering a more meaningful and profound bond between you and your child.

7. Encourage Questions and Discussions

Kids are naturally super curious, so it's awesome to get them asking questions about the story, the pictures, or any words they don't get. Use these moments to have cool chats that can lead to bigger talks about their thoughts and feelings. These talks are so important for building trust and really understanding your child.

8. Incorporate Reading into Daily Activities

Did you know that there are numerous ways to incorporate reading into your daily routine? For instance, you can read recipes while preparing meals, instructions while assembling a toy, or signs while taking a stroll. These brief reading opportunities throughout the day can illustrate to your child that reading is both practical and pleasurable in everyday life.

Encourage questions, conversations around what you read and beyond...

9. Share Your Own Stories

Children enjoy hearing about their parents' lives. Occasionally, swap the book for a personal story from your own childhood. These anecdotes can be both entertaining and educational, providing a different kind of narrative experience. Sharing your stories also helps your child see you as a person with your own experiences and memories, strengthening your bond. You could also consider creating a family scrapbook or photo album together, which can provide a tangible way to share and preserve both your personal stories and family memories. Another idea is to incorporate storytelling into everyday activities, such as at the dinner table or during family walks, to make it a natural part of your family's routine.

10. Celebrate Achievements

It's important to celebrate the milestones in your child's reading journey. Whether they've just learned their first word, completed a book, or simply sat through an entire story, it's essential to recognise and celebrate these achievements. Providing positive reinforcement will help to nurture their love for reading and create a positive association with the time spent together.

11. Be Patient and Present

As a reminder, it's important to remain patient and fully engaged during reading time. It's common for children to fidget, get distracted, or request to read the same book multiple times. Embracing these moments as part of the reading experience is crucial. Your patience and attentiveness demonstrate to your child that they are valued and loved, creating a secure environment for them to express themselves during reading time.Remember to be patient and fully present during reading time. It's totally normal for kids to fidget, get distracted, or want to read the same book over and over again. Embrace these moments as part of the fun! Your patience and attention show your child how much you care about them, and create a safe and loving space for them to enjoy reading.

Reading with your child is more than just an activity to improve their literacy skills. It’s a chance to bond, create memories, and instill a lifelong love for books. By creating a cozy reading environment, making reading a routine, interacting with the story, and being fully present, you can turn reading time into a treasured part of your day that both you and your child will look forward to.

Remember, the goal is not just to read but to connect. So, grab a book, snuggle up, and embark on countless adventures together through the pages of a book. Your child will not only become a better reader but will also cherish these moments as some of their happiest memories with you.