Creating the Perfect Kid's Reading Corner

A space of their own

READING

12/8/20243 min read

Why a Reading Corner Matters

Reading is such an important part of a child's development. Books encourage kids to tap into their imagination and to develope curiosity of the world around them. You dream of creating a personalized reading space, in a special nook will offer your child the opportunity to sit, relax, and open a book on their own initiative. Here's a simple guide to create the perfect reading corner for kids of all ages.

Create a Cozy Reading Corner

The first step in designing a reading corner is to select the right location. Look for a quiet and comfortable spot in your home—perhaps a corner of their bedroom or a nook in the living room. Once you’ve identified the perfect spot, think about the essentials - A comfortable seat, bookshelves, bins, and lots of books! Adding elements like a soft rug, a bean bag chair or hammock can offer a touch of comfort. Consider adding cushions or cute pillows for extra coziness. Even small additions invite your child can snuggle up and get lost in a book!

reading themed pillows

bean bags

Personalizing the Space

To truly encourage your kids to embrace reading, let them personalize their book space. Involve them in the decorating process, perhaps by choosing their favorite colors or themes. Adding their name or a little sign that says 'Reading Corner' can make it feel even more special.

Decorate the reading area with fun, book-inspired elements, such as bookish posters or even a magnetic or corkboard wall where kids can display their current favorite bookmarks or book covers. Frame quotes from your kids favorite stories or enlarged illustrations of their favorite characters. By incorporating these ideas, you can create a reading space that feels inspiring for kids.

wall art, Winnie the Pooh

reading theme wall decals

Organizing the space

Keeping the area neat and organized is the best way to ensure your kids keep using the space. Incorporate a kid friendly system that keeps books divided by category or level so the child can take responsibility of the upkeep. Consider organizing shelves with their favorite books, allowing them to reach and choose their reads easily. You might also want to dedicate a section for new or seasonal reads to keep things fresh and exciting. Some creative ideas for keeping a reading space organized and exciting are:

Color-Coded Bookshelves

Use colored stickers or labels on the spines of books to categorize them by themes, genres, or reading levels. Match these colors with corresponding bins or shelves, so children can easily locate and return books to the correct spot.

Rotating Book Display

Create a special "Featured Reads" area where new, seasonal, or recently discovered books are displayed in an eye-catching way. This could be a rotating shelf or a small table, ensuring that the collection feels fresh and exciting for the child.

rotating book display

Interactive Book Bins

Use clear, labeled bins for different categories such as picture books, adventure stories, or educational books. Include a fun, easy-to-follow labeling system that helps younger kids sort and identify where to place each book.

printable book category labels

Personalized Book Labels

Allow your child to design their own personalized book labels or stickers, so they can feel more ownership over the organization of their space. This also helps them develop a system and makes the space more fun for them.

custom book labels

Shelf Dividers and Trays

Use simple shelf dividers or trays to keep different categories organized while allowing the child to independently take out and return books. Small trays can be used to separate books by author, level, or theme.

book trays

bookshelf dividers

Enhancing the Experience

Don’t overlook the importance of proper lighting in your reading corner. Consider a soft lamp or string lights for those late-night reads. This will create a warm atmosphere that invites them to read. Lastly, keep a cozy blanket and some stuffed animals nearby for those chilly days or nights; it adds to the comfort and makes them feel snug and secure while immersing themselves in stories.

folding book lamp

book inspired lighting

Keep them reading!

A reading corner can be a magical space for children to explore their imagination and build a love for reading. By personalizing the corner and making it comfortable, you’re offering them more than just a space; you’re giving them an opportunity to discover new worlds and characters. So gather some books, decorate the space, and watch as your kids embark on countless adventures, all thanks to their special reading corner!