Stories at Home

Reading with your child doesn't have to be perfect. It doesn't need to last a long time and you don't have to read every page. The most important thing is spending time together and enjoying stories.

Here are some easy ways to make reading fun at home.

Make it part of your routine

Try to read together at the same time each day. This could be before bed, after nursery or while snuggling down on the sofa. Even just 5-10 minutes makes a difference.

Let your child choose

Children enjoy reading more when they can pick the book themselves. They may choose the same story again and again - and that's ok! Repetition helps them learn new words and build confidence.

Talk about the pictures

You don't have to read every word. Look at the pictures together and ask simple questions like:
- Can you find a ....?
- How many ____ can we count?
- What can you see?
- What do you think will happen next?
- How is the character feeling?

There are no wrong answers. Talking together helps build language and imagination.

Have fun with your voice

Try using different voices for the characters or adding funny sounds. Your child will love it, and it helps bring the story to life.

Join in together

Pause and let your child finish a sentence if they know it. Encourage them to point to pictures, turn the pages, or repeat favourite phrases.

Follow their interests

Whether your child loves dinosaurs, animals, vehicles or fairy tales, reading books about things they enjoy helps keep them interested and excited.

Remember it all counts

Reading isn't just about books. You can read:
- Signs when you're out walking
- Food packets while cooking
- Shopping lists
- Labels and menus

Everyday reading helps children see that reading is a part of life.

Keep it positive

If your child loses interest, don't worry. It's better to stop and come back another time than to make reading feel like a chore. Keep it fun, relaxed and enjoyable.

Most of all ... enjoy the time together!

The cuddles, chats and laughter you share while reading are just as important as the story itself. These special moments help your child develop a love of books that can last a lifetime.

 

At Story Imagin-ory Stockport we believe every story shared is a step towards building confidence, curiosity and a lifelong love of reading. Happy reading!

Our classes are all about developing a love of stories, learning through play, building confidence and creating special moments together.

 

We can't wait to welcome you and your little ones to the magic of storytelling!

 

Best wishes,

Jen x