Reading to toddlers can be a magical experience, but it can also be challenging if your little one has an abundance of energy. How to help my toddler enjoy books is a common question, you’re not alone! Many parents face this hurdle, and the good news is there are plenty of ways to foster a love of reading while accommodating their natural restlessness.
1. Choose Interactive and Engaging Books
Toddlers love books that invite them to participate. Opt for books with flaps to lift, textures to feel, or simple questions they can answer. Interactive stories will keep your toddler engaged while encouraging them to sit for longer stretches. Stories with rhythm, rhyme, or repetition can also help hold their attention as they become familiar with the patterns of the text.
2. Start with Shorter Sessions
Expecting your toddler to sit still for a long story might not be realistic at first. Begin with short reading sessions—just a few minutes at a time. As their attention span grows, you can gradually increase the length of time spent reading together.
3. Let Them Move
It might seem counterintuitive, but letting your toddler move while you read can actually help them engage with the story. Some children process information better when they’re not sitting still. If your toddler wants to wiggle, stand, or walk around while you read, that’s okay! They’re still absorbing the words and ideas.
4. Create a Cosy Reading Space
Set up a special reading nook or corner filled with cushions, blankets, and their favorite books. Having a dedicated space for reading can make the experience feel more special and inviting. It signals that this is a calm, quiet time, which helps your toddler relax and focus.
5. Let Them Choose the Books
Toddlers love making decisions and being involved. Allowing your child to choose which book to read can give them a sense of control and excitement. They’ll be more inclined to sit and listen to a story they’ve picked themselves.
6. Incorporate Books into Your Daily Routine
Find regular times in your day when you can sit down to read with your toddler, such as before naps or bedtime. Building books into your routine creates a predictable moment when they know it’s time to wind down and focus. Over time, they’ll look forward to these special moments.
7. Be Playful and Animated
Make the reading experience fun by using different voices, expressions, and sound effects as you read. Toddlers love when stories come alive! The more animated you are, the more likely your toddler will be drawn into the story and want to keep listening.
8. Be Patient and Stay Positive
It’s important to stay patient and not push your toddler if they’re struggling to sit still. Forcing them to stay still can turn reading into a battle, which is the opposite of what you want. Celebrate the small wins—whether it’s sitting for a few minutes longer than yesterday or showing interest in turning the pages.
9. Lead by Example To Help Your Toddler Enjoy Books
Toddlers love to imitate what they see. If they observe you reading and enjoying books yourself, they’re more likely to show interest in reading too. Make family reading time a shared experience by reading your own book while they look at theirs.
Helping your toddler enjoy books may take time, but by making reading fun, interactive, and part of their daily life, you’ll nurture their love for stories and set the foundation for a lifelong habit of reading. Enjoy the journey and embrace the wonderful, sometimes wiggly, moments along the way! Come along to Adventure Babies and let us do the hard work!
