How to keep your toddler engaged during story time

Wondering how to keep your toddler engaged during story time? Or asking yourself if it's even worth it?

Well, developing a love for reading from an early age has so many benefits for your child.

It will help to broaden their vocabulary and build their confidence, as well as increase their imagination and creativity.

But while reading to your child, you may find that they get easily distracted or just don't seem interested.

Here are some strategies that I have used to keep my kids engaged and involved during story time.

Get books that are interactive: I have found that the lift-a-flap books are a great way to get kids involved while reading, especially when they are young (like aged 1). At this age, they are able to lift the flaps and turn the pages, which tends to keep their interest. Also books which call for them to be active, whether it’s clapping their hands, singing (like nursery rhyme books), or making animal noises etc. Of course, it also helps when we as parents join the fun by doing the actions with them in a very expressive way.
Find books with characters your child loves: It may be Peppa Pig, baby shark, spider man, but whichever character your child is obsessed with, try to get those books as this is almost a guaranteed way for them to not only be engaged but to also actually be excited about the book.
Ask questions while reading to get your child involved: This way instead of you just reading to them, they can actively participate in the process. Ask simple questions like “What is the boy doing? What colour are his shoes? Where is he going? What is he eating? How many birds do you see?” As they get older and start learning how to spell and read, you can begin to point out words they are familiar with for reinforcement. Similarly, you can ask them to point out words that they know and of course celebrate them learning new words!
Get a forward facing book shelf: This Montessori concept is genius! Having the covers of books facing forward makes them visible to the child, giving them the opportunity to pick which one they would like to read. By doing so, you are giving your child freedom of choice as well as some amount of control, which makes them feel valued.
Carve out a special time and place to read: At the end of the day, the goal is to make reading a practice that is done daily and one that your child looks forward to. Try to carve out a special time and maybe even a special place if possible (like a cosy reading nook area with a bean bag and cushions for example) to make it fun and enjoyable. For me, it has also become a way to bond with my children by ensuring that I spend quality time with them every day.