Reading with your child is an excellent way to foster their development, but how can you keep their desire to read strong as they grow up? Incorporating literature-related activities that the whole family can participate in can significantly improve attitudes towards reading and allows children to connect with stories in much deeper ways. Read on to discover several interactive ways to foster your children's love of literature!
1) DREAM TREES - The BFG
Roald Dahl's classic novel, The BFG, received a major makeover in 2016 with the release of the major motion picture. Begin by reading the book as a family, and then put on the movie while creating these dream trees! Everyone can create a unique background with their favorite colors, and top it off with a tree that will keep their dreams happy.
2) FLOWER SEED BALLS - The Lorax
The Lorax provides important lessons on environmentalism in a way that's easy for kids to understand. Creating balls that contain wildflower seeds is a super engaging activity that provides not only a fun experience in the moment, but the beautiful flowers that will eventually be produced will provide joy for months to come.
3) CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES - If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
Baking with kids can be a daunting task, but this recipe ensures that the process will be quick, easy, and fun for everyone! Reading the classic If You Give a Mouse a Cookie while eating homemade cookies, fresh out of the oven, sums up a perfect day in the eyes of a child.
4) FARM ANIMAL WINDSOCK - Click Clack Moo, Cows That Type
Farm animals are commonly loved among kids of all ages, and this windsock activity is perfect for the entire family! Instructions are given for four different farm animals, including a chicken, sheep, pig, and cow. The windsocks can be used to act out scenes from the book Click Clack Moo, Cows That Type!
5) PAPER PLATE PADDINGTON - A Bear Called Paddington
Some of the best activities are those that use items you already have around the house! This paper plate Paddington is a super simple craft that doesn't require fancy equipment, and the resulting products provide a sweet connection to the Paddington bear books.
6) CLAY CATERPILLAR - The Very Hungry Caterpillar
The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a classic children's book that has withstood the test of time. Bring the caterpillar to life using polymer clay, and use any additional clay to create his wide variety of snacks! To ensure younger siblings can play along, Play-Doh can serve as a great alternative for polymer clay.
7) PAPER BAG MASKS - Where The Wild Things Are
These paper bag masks, inspired by the main characters of Where The Wild Things Are, allow children to connect with the story by acting it out in real life! As everyone can choose their favorite character, and even customize with colors and accessories, this is an excellent activity for the entire family to participate in.
8) MAGNETIC TREES - Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom's amusing rhymes and bright imagery has solidified it as a classic children's book. Explore the trees and letters in real life with these magnetic coconut trees - using magnets allows for the activity to be reset again and again to keep the fun going!