Do you want to encourage reading with your family? Try creating a reading area in your home that inspires and enables reading fun. Here’s how…
Reading has always been a big part of my life. Growing up, I liked nothing better than curling up with my favorite book.
This would usually be on the comfy recliner in the living room. In summer, it might be the hammock in our backyard, or on the couch at my grandparents’ house (which was air-conditioned—a big plus during those hot and humid Long Island days). At Christmas, it was any seat that was close to the tree lights. And, of course, I loved reading in my bed.
All these places have something in common—comfort. They all created an environment that was conducive to long reading hours.
Recreating that environment has been one on my goals with our new house. Not just for solo reading, but for read-alouds with the whole family.
If you’ve been trying to increase your kids’ reading, or even your own, it’s time to create a reading area that makes losing yourself in a book comfortable, easy, and enjoyable.
How does the saying go? “If you build it, they will come.” Let’s get started…
What do you need?
Like my earlier memories of reading, comfort was an important element. If I couldn’t be comfortable, then I couldn’t concentrate on my book, and would probably need to get up after a chapter or two.
I also needed good lighting. Otherwise, a headache would cut my reading short and probably leave a bad taste in my mouth the next time I sat down with a book.
An area that makes reading easy and accessible is another must. Hunting for a book, looking for a flat surface for your drink, or needing to charge your e-reader are all mood killers.
How to create a reading area for your family
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Comfort
Find spaces in your home that are comfortable and cozy. Armchairs in corners. Beanbags. Little nooks or bay windows. Places where there’s not so much traffic and noise that reading is impossible.
Add blankets and pillows, so that your reader can curl up in just the right position and be as warm as they want to be.
Add in little items that make it more pleasant. Candles if your kids are old enough to be around them, or candle warmers.
Create a reading area that feels comfy and relaxing, perfect for silent reading. Or a place that is big enough to accommodate some cuddling children wrapped around a reading parent.
Light
My father used to always chastise me for reading in low light. Even with e-readers, this can be hard on the eyes. So, make sure the lighting is just right.
I prefer lamps when possible, or dim recessed lighting. Christmas lights are another favorite. You want there to be enough light for the reader to easily see the words on the page, but not so bright that it’s clinical. Low lights whisper that you should sit down and stay awhile.
Look for lamps that can be placed near the reading area, making it easy for you to turn it on or off as the day progresses. No one likes to put down a good book to hunt for a light switch.
Accessibility
There’s a reason people have libraries and book rooms in their homes—to keep all their books within arm’s reach of their reading area.
Consider a small bookcase by you reading area. You don’t need to put the whole library out, but a good selection of titles for your kids to choose from, as well as whatever they are currently into.
Also, think about adding a small table. It can hold a lamp or candle. It can also be a place to sit your drink down. And make your reading area near a plug, so you can charge a dying e-reader while not waiting for the climax of the story.
Creating a dedicated reading area is the best way to inspire reading in your home. When the area is comfortable, well-lit, and accessible, your kids will be much more likely to cuddle in with their favorite book—and you, too.
Do you have a dedicated reading area in your home? What do you love about it? If not, what would you put in it? I’d love to hear in the comments!
Do you want to read more about books and how to read more? Try these popular posts:
Why I Read So Much & How You Can Read More, Too
10 Best Book Series for 4th Grade Girls
[Disclaimer: I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission, at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own and I never recommend anything I haven’t used myself and loved.]
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