Storytime in ECEC and at Home: Making Reading Fun and Engaging
Reading with children from birth is one of the most valuable ways to support their learning and development, both at home and in early learning settings. Storytime isn’t just about reading words on a page but about sparking imagination, nurturing emotional connection, and building the foundation for lifelong literacy.
As educators, we play a vital role in fostering a love of reading within our centres. And beyond that, we can also help families feel confident to continue the magic of reading at home.
The proven power of reading together
Research consistently shows that shared reading experiences in the early years can have a lasting impact on children’s cognitive, language, and social-emotional development.
Language and literacy growth: Shared or ‘dialogic’ reading (where children are invited to talk about the story) builds vocabulary, comprehension, and early literacy skills. This can meaningfully supports language development and school readiness.
Brain development: Studies show that early reading for pleasure strengthens the brain areas linked to imagination and empathy. It can even support mental wellbeing later in life too.
Equity and opportunity: Regular reading in the early years helps close the gap for children from disadvantaged backgrounds, improving educational outcomes and confidence.
These findings remind us that reading with children in early childhood education goes beyond being a fun daily routine. It is a key part of building a solid foundation for lifelong learning.
Practical ways to make reading fun and engaging
With the right approach, reading can be both educational and exciting. Here’s a few tips to help you make that happen, whether you’re an educator or a parent (or both!).
- Create a special story space
In both early learning settings and homes, a dedicated reading nook can make storytime feel like an event. Think soft cushions, quiet corners, and accessible shelves so children can choose their own books. - Bring stories to life
Use expressive voices, actions, and questions to engage children. Involve them by asking what they think might happen next or to act out a scene. When adults and children read interactively, it deepens comprehension and makes learning joyful. - Follow their interests
Trucks, fairies, the ocean… Children engage most with topics that reflect their interests. Let them choose their own books at the library or in centres to nurture independence and enthusiasm for reading. - Make connections to real life
Encourage children to link the story to their own experiences. For example, say something like “That’s just like when we went to the beach!” or “How would you feel if that happened to you?” These conversations build empathy, understanding, and language skills. - Add movement and play
Reading doesn’t have to be quiet! Props, puppets, and dramatic play can make stories interactive and multisensory, reinforcing comprehension in creative ways. - Keep it consistent
A short story each day for as little as 10 minutes helps children develop focus and positive reading habits. Consistency matters more than duration.
Working together with families
Educators can model the fun of reading with children during group readings, highlight the joy of books throughout the program, and share strategies with families to help them continue reading at home.
Simple ways to support continuation of learning in the home for families include:
- Displaying a ‘Book of the Week’ in rooms or sending home book suggestions.
- Sharing tips at pickup time about fun reading routines.
- Inviting families to bring in a favourite story from home to share during group time.
When families and educators work together, children see reading as something valued everywhere, strengthening their confidence and curiosity.
Inspiring a lifelong love of learning
Storytime is one of the most meaningful, low-cost, and high-impact learning experiences we can offer young children.
At Practical Outcomes, our early childhood education courses empower educators to nurture literacy and communication through play-based learning. Learn more here.
