DIY: Reading Nook

The New Year is upon us, and with it comes goals and resolutions! Upon reflecting on things I wanted to improve in 2019, I immediately knew that I would like to create new reading spaces for my kids. Reading is essential for children, but there are so many other things competing for their attention. Time to put those goals into action and create a fun, relaxing reading nook!

Supplies:

*Comfy rug

*Comfy pillows or chair

*Personalized decorations (monograms, pictures, artifacts)

*Light (lamp or hanging pendant)

*Books (lots of books)

*Bookcase

Directions:

1. I didn’t want to spend a lot of money since it was just Christmas. Most of us have supplies lying around the house to create this space. I spent a morning collecting from different rooms and moving some things around in the kids' rooms, while quoting the phrase, “If you build it, they will come.”

2. Find a corner or an open spot in the room where you can create a little reading nook. I started by laying the rug, arranging the chair or pillows, and hanging the pendant light. I didn't want to go buy a new light, so I made a hanging pendant light with a basket that I had lying around by adding a light kit to it.

3. Next, place the bookshelf or baskets where the books can be easily accessed. This is the key to success. If the books aren’t readily accessible, my kids won’t read. Keep in mind, this is also an excellent time to go through their books to make sure you have plenty of age-appropriate ones available. Set up a book swap with some friends to trade out old books. That way you don’t have to buy new, and you always have new ones revolving through. I also utilized cube storage in one of the bookshelves to hold extra books.
4. Finally, add some personalized touches such as pictures or monogrammed letters. Maybe you have a favorite inspirational saying or quote that you can hang on the wall. Both of my girls love comfy pillows and dolls, so I placed their favorites on the chair to read to. Every night we are setting a timer for twenty minutes for the kids to have a quiet time reading.

Do you also have some goals that you would like to accomplish in 2019? Now is the time to get started. I hope that we all can slow down this year and take the time to sit with our children and read a favorite book. One of my favorite memories growing up is my mom reading to me every night. It was the best gift she could have given me, and I want to pass that on to my children.

about the author...Jessica Robbins has lived in Billings, MT for 15 years and is proud to call Montana home! She is married to her husband Zach and has two beautiful girls. She loves refurbishing furniture, crafting, and playing with her children.

Originally printed in the pages of Simply Family Magazine's January 2019 issue. 

Check out the digital edition, here!