Storytime is more than a cosy bedtime ritual. Reading together gives toddlers opportunities to hear new words, practise communication and connect stories with the world around them.
The key is to make books interactive and enjoyable rather than treating reading like a lesson.
Also see: Top 5 screen-free activities for toddlers
1. Let them choose
Give your toddler a say in what you read. Whether they pick a favourite picture book or ask for the same story for the tenth time, repetition is valuable and can help them anticipate what happens next.
2. Bring characters to life
According to Edge Early Learning, it helps to use different voices, facial expressions and gestures for characters.
Make animal noises, pause for dramatic moments and vary your tone. You don’t need to be a professional storyteller – enthusiasm is what matters.
3. Talk about the pictures
Don’t feel obliged to read every word. Pause and ask what your toddler can see.
“Where’s the dog?” or “What colour is the car?” turns a passive reading session into a conversation.
4. Ask what happens next
Wonderful Little Company recommends involving your toddler through questions and predictions. Before turning the page, invite your child to guess what might happen.
There is no right answer. These simple questions encourage curiosity and help children engage with the story.
Also see: Questions to ask before posting your toddler on the internet
5. Connect stories to real life
If a book features a trip to the beach, talk about your own beach visits. Making these connections helps toddlers relate new words and ideas to familiar experiences.
6. Add songs and movement
Choose books with rhymes, songs or actions. Clap, dance, stomp or act out parts of the story.
Rhyming and repetition can support early language and literacy development.
7. Follow their lead
Reading Fairy suggests allowing your little one to take the lead. This includes letting them turn pages and even listening to what they have to say about the pictures.
If your toddler loses interest, don’t force them to finish. A few enjoyable minutes still count. Let their curiosity guide the session – storytime should feel like shared play, not homework.
Ultimately, the best storytime is one where you and your toddler are having fun together. That positive connection can help nurture a lasting love of books and reading.
Also see: 4 Simple ways to support your toddler’s brain development
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