Loving books and stories play kit
Learning to read is not just about mastering letters and sounds, it’s also about understanding stories and information and loving books.
The first thing you need is a selection of books. You could join your local library or find a book exchange to get some new reads.
Have a variety of stories and information books, then think about making looking at books and sharing stories part of your daily routine.
A place for books
- A box or basket
- Shelving which allow books to be stored facing outwards.
Cosy places to read
- Cushions
- Blankets
- A comfy chair
- A rug or mat (to make lying down to read comfortable!)
Bringing stories to life
- Wooden spoons and pens – use these to make ‘story spoons’ by drawing the characters from your child’s favourite stories.
- Soft toys or toy figures - use these to retell stories or to make up stories of your own together.
- Large sheets of paper (the back of wallpaper is good) and pens – use this to draw key features from stories.
- Cardboard boxes and blocks - use these to create different settings for stories.
- Large pieces of fabric, or old clothes - use these to create costumes and act out favourite stories together.