W

hen you share a story with genuine enthusiasm, your child doesn’t just listen—they lean in, caught by the energy. That kind of joy once filled Enlightenment salons, where readers debated characters and meaning late into the night. Reading together makes books feel like shared adventures, not assignments—helping children connect emotionally, think critically, and grow into confident readers. Whether diving into fiction or exploring nonfiction, they learn to engage with ideas and express opinions. These sessions turn your living room into a space where stories come alive and conversations deepen, giving them the tools to excel in reading groups, essays, or simply thoughtful dialogue.

One evening, I grabbed Harry Potter and exaggerated Snape’s sneer. My son jumped in with wild guesses, my daughter asked, “Is magic real?” and suddenly we were lost in debate over popcorn, dinner forgotten. Later, she led a Narnia reread for her book club, while he surprised his teacher with clever predictions. Their passion for stories had taken root in those family evenings—an energy they now carry into classrooms and friendships.

Set aside regular time for family reading. Choose a book together, take turns reading aloud, and let the discussion unfold naturally. Encourage kids to jot reactions or favorite moments in a notebook, then share their thoughts at school or in clubs. These cozy rituals make reading joyful and social—laying a foundation for deeper engagement with language, ideas, and each other.

TIPS

• Go big—funny voices hook them.
• Ask, “What happens next?” to reel them in.
• Keep a journal for their reactions.
• Suggest weekly reading sessions.

ACTIVITIES

• Story Night: Read a chapter, act a part, guess what is next, 15 minutes.
• Book Buzz: Share a cool fact from your read, ask theirs, 10 minutes.