There’s something magic about falling into a story. Whether it’s through a picture book at bedtime, a flick through a comic on a rainy day or a first chapter book completed with pride, reading has a unique way of opening children’s minds – building their imagination, confidence and connection.
That’s why, during National Year of Reading, and as we celebrate National Storytelling Week here in the UK, there’s no better time to encourage your little ones to discover the joy of books.
At Let’s Go, we believe that reading isn’t just about learning the words, but about sharing experience, building curiosity and creating memories.
The Power of reading
Reading with children from a young age is shown to support their language development, concentration, empathy and understanding, and their own wellbeing. It also carves out calm moments of connection in our busy day-to-day lives.
The fun thing about reading is that it can be done in so many ways – whether it’s an audiobook on a drive, a cosy cuddle up with a storybook before bed, or a re-visit to a comforting classic together, it all counts towards a moment of relaxation and enjoyment. And when approached like this together early on, children are far more likely to choose to do it independently as they grow.
National Storytelling Week
This week, organised by Society for Storytelling, is a celebration of all thing’s stories – reminding us they are created to be shared and played with.
Try:
- Reading aloud and using silly voices
- Finding activity packs, session plans, and booklists with Society for Storytelling
- Looking for online workshops, performances, and gatherings
- Acting out favourite scenes with toys or dressing up
- Asking your child to change the ending of their favourite stories
- Encouraging them to tell you a story of their own
These simple activities help children see stories as something fun and creative, not something to be tested on.
