Reading with children: tips, benefits and fun ideas with games

Reading aloud is so much more than just sharing a book. It's a joyful moment, a way to strengthen the bond with your child, and an investment in language development. With the right children's books and a touch of creativity, you can turn reading aloud into a magical experience.

In this blog we share:

• why reading aloud is important,
• useful reading tips,
• and how to combine books with sensory play using materials such as Grenn wave trays, Magna-Tiles and play rice.

Why is reading aloud important?

Reading aloud has countless benefits, both for young children and for older children up to the age of 8.

• It stimulates language development and vocabulary.
• Children learn to listen and concentrate better.
• Reading aloud stimulates the imagination and creativity.
• It is a nice moment of peace and connection together.

Whether you read a bedtime story every night or schedule a regular afternoon reading session, every child benefits.

The most beautiful children's books to read aloud

We have a wonderful collection of children's books that are perfect for reading together. Here are a few recommendations:

• The Story Orchestra – discover music and stories in one.
• The Leaf Thief and The Snow Thief – wonderful books for the seasons.
• The special forest of Bear and Cozy and cozy in the forest of Bear – warm stories about friendship.
• Two fighting squirrels – funny and relatable.
• The Special Animal Book – educational and surprising for curious children.

With these books you can turn every reading moment into a party.

Tips to make reading aloud even more fun

• Read with intonation – make small voices or whisper during exciting parts.
• Get children involved – point to pictures together or have them predict what will happen next.
• Repetition is allowed! – children love hearing their favorite book over and over again.
• Create a cozy corner – a blanket, a cuddly toy, and some pillows will make reading extra cozy.
• Connect reading to play – have children act out the story using toys or materials.

Combining reading with sensory play

A book truly comes to life when children are allowed to explore it themselves. Combine reading aloud with sensory play:

• Build the forest The special forest of Bear with Magna-Tiles and wooden animals.
• Create a themed play table with Grenn wave bowls, play rice, and magic sand for The Leaf Thief.
• Use cutters in themes such as butterflies, sun, or unicorn to recreate scenes from the book in sand or clay.

This way you connect reading, feeling and playing and children experience the story in multiple ways.

Reading aloud: a gift for every child

With a beautiful book, you're not just sharing a story, but also a memory. By combining reading aloud with play, you create educational and playful moments that children won't soon forget.

Whether you choose a cheerful picture book, an exciting story, or an educational animal book – with a touch of creativity, you can turn every reading moment into a little celebration.

✨ Tip: Set out a stack of favorite books, place a container of Grenn sensory materials and Magna-Tiles next to the reading table, and you have a complete activity that brings reading and play together.