How to Spark Interest in Reading on World Book Day

Develop a Love for Reading in the Digital Age

Social media is here to stay. Nothing will change that. So as parents, we need to spark our children’s interest in reading on World Book Day.

As a new mum over 40, my library was the Internet of the day and every day was a book day. It provided everything I needed education, story-telling – and stickers all in one place. Thankfully without the distraction of screen time including TikTok and Candy Crush.

Call me old-fashioned, but it was a wonderland of entertainment with cosy reading nooks and crannies. Its shelves were crammed with both fact and fiction. It’s where my learning to read journey began and was a valued asset in our local community. Special doesn’t quite cover what it was to me.

There are so many distractions today that I now value the evening Bath, Book, Bed routine even more with little C. It’s a time when I can curl up and we can immerse ourselves in the art of story-telling.

World Book Day

That’s why as part of World Book Day (March 5th), I’m supporting a new Get Kids Reading campaign to help modern parents understand the importance of reading to their children. It’s not just about packing them off to nursery or school in a fancy costume that you’ve bought with the weekly grocery shop.

The purpose of the campaign is to raise awareness around the dangers of social media for our children’s literacy and to give parents access to resources to start (and keep boosting) their children’s reading ability.

Landmark Research on Social Media Consumption

A recent landmark study by University College London (UCL), came to this conclusion based on researching 11,000 children’s social media consumption.

Research from UCL and The Institute for Social And Economic Research (IESR) have also found links between heavy social media use and increased levels of depression, lack of sleep, increased risk of cyber-bullying and low self-esteem in our children.

Social media is here to stay. Nothing will change that. So as parents, we need to help spark our children’s interest in reading. That is where Sooper Books comes in.

Free Online Library Resource

They have created a free online children’s library to help bridge the gap between children’s fascination with technology and our need to get them reading. It’s a selection of short children’s stories for the busy, modern family that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere – without spending a penny of your hard-earned cash.

They’ve also partnered with influencers like me to bring you some of the best free tips, advice and resources you’ll find on the web. Think of it as the ultimate guide to help your kids love reading.

Tips for Creating a Cosy Reading Environment at Home

Create a Reading Nook – Use a small corner of your child’s room or living area to create a “reading nook.” Add a comfortable chair, a few cushions, and a small bookshelf within arm’s reach. Soft fairy lights or a small lamp can add a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for curling up with a book.

Themed Reading Space – Consider making the reading nook themed around your child’s favourite book or characters. For instance, if they love “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” you could decorate the area with caterpillar-themed pillows or wall art to spark their interest in reading.

Interactive Storytelling: How to Make Reading Fun for Kids

Character Voices – When reading “The Tiger Who Came to Tea,” use different voices for each character. Make the tiger’s voice deep and growly, while giving Sophie a bright and curious tone. This makes the story come alive and keeps your child engaged.

Ask Questions – Pause during the story to ask your child what they think will happen next. For instance, while reading “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt,” ask, “Do you think they will find the bear? What would you do if you saw a bear?” This encourages your child to think creatively and engage more deeply with the story.

Incorporate Technology in Reading

Use Audiobooks – If your child enjoys technology, introduce them to audiobooks as a supplement to physical reading. For instance, “The Wonky Donkey” is available as an audiobook with fun sound effects and character voices. Listening to stories can be a fun way to engage them, especially during car rides or bedtime.

Reading Apps – Introduce apps like Sooper Books or Epic! where children can read along with stories on a tablet or smartphone. These apps often have interactive elements, such as clickable illustrations or audio features that add another layer of engagement.

10 Bedtime Stories I Love Reading To Little C

Six Dinner Sid by Inga Moore

The Tiger Who Came to Tea by Judith Kerr

Peace at Last by Jill Murphy

10 Little Dinosaurs by Mike Brownlow

The Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith

Five Minutes Peace by Jill Murphy

Elmer and the Rainbow by David McKee

FunnyBones by Alan Ahlberg

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen

Personalised Bedtime Stories: Creating Meaningful Reading Experiences for Your Child

Of course, every child is different. Perhaps our favourite bedtime stories won’t tickle your child’s funny bone. Yet, that isn’t to say you can’t interest them in reading. You need to find something they care about. Did you know that most families have their own unique bedtime stories? If this is your case, perhaps you could write about those and print your book packed with meaningful and beloved stories that will get your child into reading. It’s certainly worth a try and it’s also a great way of immortalising those family stories! 

Enjoy! And sleep tight x