7 Family Literacy Activities to Try

Turning reading into a family literacy experience is one of the best ways to build a lifelong love for books in kids. Making reading a playful part of everyday life will show kids that books are not only for learning — they’re for laughter, cherished memories, and pure enjoyment. 

Scholastic partnered with families across the country to discover how they’re making reading fun for kids of all ages. Through their inspired ideas, they’ve found what works for them — and we hope their tips help you ignite a love for books and build literacy skills in your own home.

“These books aren’t just stories – they’re memories we’re creating together,” says Swati (@imperfectly.perfect.lyf).

Here are seven family literacy activities to help you make reading fun and spark a lifelong love of stories.

1. Make Read-Alouds a Family Activity

According to the Scholastic Kids and Family Reading Report, 90 percent of parents agree that reading aloud is or was a special time spent with their child. Reading aloud not only nurtures a love for stories but also brings family members together in a fun, shared activity. 

“Cozying up with a good book is our favorite way to decompress from a school day,” says Danielle Sapienza (@daniellemsapienza). “They love a quiet activity… and spending time together in a low-key setting after a long day apart.”

For younger children who aren’t yet reading on their own, read-alouds are a great way to introduce books that encourage literacy skills early on. Plus, you can encourage your kid to take turns reading or looking through the pictures. 

“These books aren’t just stories – they’re memories we’re creating together.” — Swati

Mollie (@modest_mollie) shares that her kids can’t read themselves yet, “but they absolutely love being read to and also love looking through books on their own for some quiet time.”

Plus, check out the best family read-alouds under $5!

2. Encourage Kids to Find a Friend in a Book

Book characters can become lifelong companions kids will want to revisit again and again.

“I want to encourage her to fall in love with new characters and go on amazing adventures that only you can do in the pages of a book,” says Jayme Yannuzzi (@teachtalkinspire). 

Series are perfect for inspiring excitement around reading and nurturing your child’s literacy development. When your child discovers a story and characters they connect with, they’ll want to continue exploring that world and follow their favorite characters’ journeys.

Introduce your child to a new favorite character and series.

3. Take Books On the Go

Having books on hand wherever you are makes it easy for kids to dive into a story during car rides, errands, or quick moments around the house. Making books accessible anytime, anywhere turns reading into a fun adventure. 

“I keep a bin of books that are interesting to her with beloved characters in the car and in the laundry room so that she can easily grab one on the go,”’ Jayme says. 

Explore captivating books to keep kids reading wherever adventure leads.

Choose books your kids love to re-read or stock their bin with a new series in their “travel library” for added excitement.

Plus, discover literacy games for the whole family to play while on-the-go.

4. Share the Books You Loved

Make family storytime extra special by sharing the joy of your childhood favorites!

According to the Scholastic Kids and Family Reading Report, 83 percent of children ages 6 to 17 look to their parents as their primary reading role models. Rediscovering the books you loved then is a great way to connect with kids and help your child learn just how timeless the joy of reading can be.

“Motherhood is filled with so many magical moments. Passing down my love of reading to my kids is a top priority,” says Nicole Vidaurre (@organized_chaosblog). 

Explore nostalgic titles and series that have stood the test of time.

Encourage siblings to read together, too! When kids read as a team, they can motivate each other to explore new stories and characters, creating memories that make reading an activity they can look forward to together.

"Watching my son and daughter share a favorite book is pure joy," says Ashley Tutt (@ahalfbakedmom).

5. Swap Things Out Periodically With New Books

Swapping out the books in their home library keeps things fresh and kids will delight in the element of surprise each month.

“Once a month, I’ll switch out the books and place new ones in. It encourages my kids to fall in love with new characters, maintain a positive routine, and keep the love of learning/reading alive,” says Kara Adams (@whimsicallywonderful). 

Involve your child in picking out new titles, making it an exciting ritual they’ll look forward to!

Check out the latest new releases for kids of all ages.

6. Make Bedtime Stories a Cozy Tradition

Make family literacy night a special part of every weekend! Creating a bedtime reading tradition offers a comforting and grounding experience for both you and your child — perfect for winding down together after busy week.

“After busy weekdays, it’s great to start a reading journey with your children every weekend," shares Estefani Arevalo (@thatdeafamily). “Bedtime cuddles make every moment special. You’ll feel good knowing you spent quality time together, and it warms your heart as they drift off to sleep.”

Build excitement around your weekend reading routine by ending each night on a cliffhanger! Read just a chapter or a few pages together and your child will be eager to get back to the book the next night. 

Discover bedtime stories to help kids drift off into a dreamland full of wonder. 

7. Match Books to Your Child’s Interests

When kids find books that match their grade level and interests, reading feels easy and enjoyable. Kids feel accomplished when they finish a book they loved, and that sense of achievement motivates them to keep reading. 

“Let stories take your child on a new journey with books tailored to their personal interests,” shares Julia Marrero (@juliamarrero).

Whether your child loves animal books, fantastical tales, early reader books, or graphic novels, discovering the perfect book is a surefire way to keep kids flipping pages and turn reading into their favorite activity. 

“As an avid reader myself, I know the value in finding that perfect book, the one that makes the difference,” says Danielle. 

Plus, explore leveled readers to help your child find just-right books.

Get started with these books for all ages below! You can find all books and activities at The Scholastic Store. 

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