How to create the perfect reading nook in your home

A reading nook is a space dedicated to books and daydreams. The area doesn’t need to be very big, but it should be cozy and inviting. Here are a few spaces that might be suitable for your book haven:

• A bedroom
• A game room
• A common room
• A basement
• A bedsheet tent
• Etc.
   

If the reading nook reflects your child’s personality, they’ll be more inclined to spend time there. To get some decor ideas, you can ask them the following questions:

• Who’s your favourite comic book character?
• What’s your favourite colour?
• What’s your dream location?
• Which do you prefer: a field of flowers or the seashore?
• Etc.
   

Once you know a bit more about your child’s tastes, you can start decorating their reading nook. For instance, you can spruce it up with the following:

• A poster of their favourite literary character
• A canopy made of sheets
• A beanbag chair
• Cushions
• Bunting
• Silk flowers
• String lights
• A rug
• A wooden crate bookcase
• Lamps
• A chalkboard wall
• Wallpaper
• Touches of colour on the walls
• Etc.
   

Poor lighting is bad for our eyesight, especially when we’re reading. As you set up your child’s reading nook, try to follow these recommendations:

• Ensure the room’s lighting is not too bright (consider adding lampshades)
• Provide a reading lamp that can be positioned to shine directly onto the page
• Choose a lamp with several brightness settings
• Set up near a window so that your child can take advantage of the natural light
• Etc.
   

Having a designated reading space in your home is great. But if your child isn’t a natural bookworm, you may need to stimulate their desire to read. Here are a few tips to get your child interested in the written word:

• Fill your shelves with books
• Make sure new books (purchased or borrowed from the library) are prominently displayed 
• Lead by example and spend time in the reading nook
• Ask your child to read out loud to you
• Give your child a special snack during reading time
• Establish a reading routine (e.g., every night before bedtime)
• Etc.