Life gets busy, and finding time for family reading can feel like an impossible task. Between work, school, activities, and household responsibilities, it might seem like there’s no room left in the day. But even with packed schedules, it’s possible to carve out time for books—and the benefits make it worth the effort.
Here are practical tips to help your family prioritize reading, even on the busiest days.
1. Start Small: Just 5-10 Minutes
Reading doesn’t have to take hours. Starting with just 5 to 10 minutes a day can make a big difference. Whether it’s a bedtime story or a quick read during breakfast, short sessions add up over time.
- Tip: Use a timer to create a dedicated reading period. Knowing it’s only a few minutes makes it easier to commit.
2. Make Reading Part of Your Routine
Incorporate reading into moments that are already part of your day:
- Bedtime Stories: End the day with a relaxing book.
- Mealtime Reading: Share a short story or poem during breakfast or dinner.
- Waiting Time: Keep books or the Worldreader BookSmart app handy for when you’re waiting at appointments or during car rides.
3. Create a Family Reading Schedule
Set aside specific times for family reading. For example:
- A 15-minute reading block before or after dinner.
- Sunday afternoons dedicated to quiet reading time.
- A weekend “read-a-thon” where everyone picks a favorite book.
- Tip: Use a family calendar to schedule reading times, just like other important activities.
4. Keep Books Accessible
Make it easy to grab a book anytime by placing them in convenient spots:
- Keep a basket of books in the living room, kitchen, or car.
- Rotate the selection regularly to keep things fresh and interesting.
- Tip: If physical books aren’t always an option, use digital tools like the Worldreader BookSmart app for instant access to a wide variety of stories.
5. Combine Reading with Other Activities
Multitasking can help busy families fit reading into their day:
- Listen to audiobooks during car rides or while doing chores.
- Pair a themed book with a related activity, like reading about space and then stargazing.
6. Make It a Family Affair
Turn reading into a shared experience that everyone can enjoy:
- Host a family book club where each person chooses a book to share.
- Take turns reading aloud, with each family member acting out a character.
- Celebrate milestones, like finishing a chapter or a book, with small rewards or a special family outing.
7. Use Screen Time Wisely
Instead of scrolling through social media or watching TV, dedicate some screen time to reading:
- Explore e-books or interactive stories on tablets.
- Replace one TV show a week with family reading time.
8. Be Flexible and Forgiving
Some days will be busier than others, and that’s okay. The key is to keep trying and find what works for your family:
- If you miss a day, pick back up the next.
- Adjust your schedule as needed to accommodate changing routines.
A Little Goes a Long Way
Even on the busiest days, a small commitment to reading can make a big impact. By weaving books into your daily life, you’re showing your children that reading matters—and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
So, take a moment today to pick up a book. Whether it’s 5 minutes or 15, every little bit counts.
