Find your reading rhythm

Published on: 08 October 2024

We know that children have different ways that they like to play and read. Helping children find ways of reading and sharing stories that works for them can foster a love of reading that builds strong foundations for life.

If you’re still trying to find your reading rhythm together here’s some of the different ways to share stories that you could try.

1. First find the pictures

You don’t always need to dive straight into the words. Sometimes the pictures tell just as much of a story – if not more! Spend time together exploring the illustrations. You can move through the book asking questions or spotting patterns. Do you keep seeing the same character? What do you think they might be doing on the next page?

2. Add the actions

Sharing stories doesn’t always mean sitting down and listening. Sitting down with a story might work for some children, but other children might want to include more movement in their story sessions. You could act out the different characters. For example, can you hop when you spot the bunny?

3. Use story props

Using props can help to bring stories to life. You don’t need any specific things. Part of the fun is just finding some household items you can use. You can dress up with hats, scarves, and coats. Or you could use pots and pans and other kitchen bits to make instruments.

4. Get creative

Use your stories as inspiration to keep the fun going. Stories they’ve heard give children inspiration for their own imaginative play. Act out a story together using toys as the characters. Make a cake, song, or game based on your favourite book. Look forsome of our activity ideas on the Story Explorers Hub to get you started.

5. Let the child lead

We can have expectations of how sharing stories might or should look, but this doesn’t always go to plan. If the child is engaged and enjoying the story, try to lean into their interests. Even if it means just sticking with one page or racing through the book. By simply interacting with stories children can access the many benefits