Reading Together

📚 The Gift of Reading Together: Why Storytime Matters

Making Memories One Page at a Time

Reading with your child isn’t just about books; it’s about bonding, wonder, and a lifetime of learning. Whether it’s cuddling on the couch with a silly rhyme or winding down with a bedtime adventure, storytime builds bridges between hearts and minds.

🧠 Reading Builds Brainpower

When you read aloud, your child hears new words, sentence patterns, and ideas. That’s language development in action!

• Strengthens vocabulary and listening skills
• Sparks curiosity and imagination
• Supports memory and attention span

Even babies benefit from hearing stories; they start connecting words with emotions and rhythm!

❤️ Reading Builds Connection

Storytime creates a safe, cozy space for sharing and growing together.

• It encourages physical closeness and emotional bonding
• Promotes empathy through characters and storytelling
• Gives children the chance to ask questions, laugh, and reflect with you by their side

Think of each book as a mini-journey you take together, one that’s filled with wonder and warmth.

🌱 Reading Plants Lifelong Seeds

The habit of reading early in life can lead to a lifelong love for books, learning, and self-expression.

• Children who are read to regularly often become confident, curious readers themselves
• They learn that books are sources of comfort, excitement, and exploration
• You’re not just reading to your child, you’re reading with them

💛 A Gentle Reminder: Follow Their Lead

Choose stories that match your child’s age and interests. If they love animals, grab a book about bunnies or dinosaurs. If they’re silly, go for rhyming tales with giggles built in. The goal is joy, not perfection.

🌟 Storytime Gratitude Prompt

Ask your child:
“What do you love most about our reading time?”
Their answers might surprise you—“Your voice,” “Snuggles,” or even “The silly monkey in that book!”

Those tiny responses hold big meaning.

📖 “Storytime Stars” Family Activity

Celebrate reading with creativity, conversation, and connection!

🌟 What You’ll Need:

• Your child’s favorite storybook
• Star-shaped paper cutouts or sticky notes
• Markers or crayons
• A small basket or jar

✨ How to Do It:

1. Read Together: Choose a special book and snuggle in for storytime.
2. Pick a ‘Star Moment’: After reading, ask your child to share their favorite part of the story.
3. Write or Draw: On a star cutout, help them write or draw that moment, like “The dragon’s funny sneeze!” or “The puppy’s brave rescue.”
4. Add to the Star Jar: Place the star in your jar or basket. Over time, it becomes a shimmering collection of reading memories!
5. Reflect and Celebrate: Every week, take out a few stars and talk about them. Encourage gratitude by asking:
   👉 “What made that part special for you?”
   👉 “How did that story make you feel?”

🧡 Why It Matters:

This activity not only strengthens literacy skills, but it also nurtures emotional intelligence, memory, and appreciation. It’s a beautiful way to slow down and savor stories together.

Get your worksheet here:

I hope you have a fantastic time with the activity! Enjoy every moment!