Nov 15, 2023
9
min read
Parent Resources

Building Reading Into Your Holiday Traditions

Sarah Nguyen

The holiday season is upon us! As adults, we're often caught up in the whirlwind of festive preparations, from decorating the house to planning family gatherings. Amidst all the hustle and bustle, it's easy to overlook the simple pleasures that can create lasting memories for our children. One such timeless activity is reading together as a family. In this post, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of reading with your kids at home during the holidays, and I’ll offer some tips on how to make it a joyful and cherished tradition.

Ranging from skill-building to building that warm and fuzzy “home for the holidays” feeling, there are a number of benefits to adding reading into your routine this time of year.

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The Gift of Imagination

One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is the ability to explore worlds beyond their own through the magic of books. And what time of year is more magical than the holidays? Reading together fosters imagination and creativity, transporting kids to fantastical realms where anything is possible. Choose books that captivate their interests, whether it's tales of adventure, magical creatures, or heartwarming stories about friendship and family.

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Quality Bonding Time

Especially during school vacations, the holiday season is about spending time with loved ones. What better way to connect than through a shared story? Snuggle up with your little ones under a cozy blanket, sip on hot cocoa, and let the words on the pages create a magical atmosphere. Reading together provides a unique bonding experience, creating cherished moments that your children will carry with them into adulthood.

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Building Language Skills

The benefits of reading extend beyond the feel-good factor. Reading aloud with your kids at home enhances their language development and vocabulary. As you navigate through the pages, engage them in discussions about the characters, plot twists, and moral lessons. This not only improves their communication skills but also helps them become stronger critical thinkers.

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Setting a Positive Example

Children often mimic the behaviors they observe at home. By incorporating reading into your family's holiday traditions, you set a positive example that emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning. Make reading a regular part of your routine, demonstrating that it's not just an activity but a lifelong practice.

Now, how do you make the magic happen? Here are some practical tips for how to incorporate reading into your joyful, cherished traditions this time of year.

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Creating a Cozy Reading Nook

To make reading at home during the holidays even more enticing, consider creating a cozy reading nook. Arrange pillows, blankets, and perhaps some twinkling fairy lights to transform a corner of your living space into a magical reading haven. This dedicated space will make reading a special and eagerly anticipated activity for your kids.

Exploring Holiday-themed Books

The holidays present a perfect opportunity to introduce themed books into your reading repertoire. Whether it's classic tales of winter wonderlands, stories about the spirit of giving, or even books that delve into the cultural significance of your family's holiday traditions, these themed reads add a festive touch to your literary adventures.

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Sharing Books with Guests

The holidays are a time for visiting with loved ones and friends you may not see often throughout the rest of the year. Consider choosing a few books to share in advance of having visitors. This presents a great opportunity for your child to engage in the joy of reading with Grandma and Grandpa, a favorite aunt or uncle, and anyone else who comes to your home for the holidays! 

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Encouraging Independence

As your children grow, encourage them to take the lead in choosing books and even reading aloud themselves. This not only boosts their confidence but also instills a sense of responsibility for their own learning. Let them explore their interests through books, and you might be surprised by the diverse range of topics that capture their curiosity.

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One option to consider is inviting Ello to join your holiday reading traditions! Ello is a great reading companion to build confident, independent reading during downtime from school. Read With Ello is screentime you can feel good about giving your child, and an Ello subscription can be the gift that keeps on giving throughout the year.

In the midst of the holiday chaos, let's not forget the joy that can be found in the simplicity of reading together as a family. It's a tradition that transcends generations, creating lasting bonds and fostering a love for learning. So, this holiday season, make a commitment to weave the magic of books into your family's celebrations. Watch as the worlds within the pages unfold, and relish in the shared moments that will become cherished memories for years to come.

I have been absolutely thrilled with my son's experience using the Ello reading subscription. It has been an incredible tool in helping him learn to read while keeping him engaged and excited about the process. He looks forward to exploring new stories… It strikes the perfect balance between education and entertainment, making the journey enjoyable and effective. Ello is an indispensable tool in fostering my son's reading skills and love for learning
LeLoni M.
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Parent Resources
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