Falling in Love with Books: Creating Early Readers for Life
As we look ahead to World Book Day on Thursday 5 March, it feels like a lovely opportunity to celebrate the magic of books and the special role they play, not just in early childhood but throughout our whole lives.
It’s also worth noting that 2026 is the National Year of Reading, a campaign designed to encourage more people to read by bringing books closer to everyday life and culture. The focus is on weaving reading into the things families already enjoy, from sport, music and films to food, play and family time, helping reading feel like a natural, enjoyable part of daily life rather than something forced or academic.
At Pendley Day Nursery, books are part of everyday life; they are not just something we reach for at story time. They help children make sense of the world, spark their imagination and build skills they will use for the rest of their lives.
Why books matter so much in the early years
Babies and young children are natural learners. Long before they can read words, they are learning how books work, how language sounds and how stories flow.
Sharing books from an early age will help to:
- Build listening and attention skills
- Support speech and language development
- Introduce new words and ideas
- Encourage curiosity and imagination
- Create calm, comforting moments of connection
Perhaps most importantly, positive early experiences with books will help children develop a love of reading. That enjoyment is what stays with them as they grow.
Reading together at nursery
In the nursery, we make reading relaxed, fun and part of the daily routine. Children can enjoy:
- Cosy group story times
- One to one sharing of books with familiar adults
- Rhymes, songs and repetitive stories they can join in with
- Exploring books independently at their own pace
We follow the children’s interests, whether that is animals, vehicles, fairy tales or favourite characters – there’s no pressure to sit still or finish a story. Sometimes a child might want to turn the same page again and again or talk about a single picture. That is all part of learning.
How parents can encourage a love of books at home
You do not need to be an expert reader or have shelves full of books to support your child at home. Small, simple moments can make a big difference.
Here are a few easy ideas for you to try:
- Let your child choose their own books, even if it is the same one every night
- Talk about the pictures and ask gentle questions
- Use different voices or actions if you feel comfortable
- Read little and often rather than trying to fit in long sessions
- Make books part of everyday routines, such as before bed
Most of all, keep it enjoyable. If your child wriggles, chats or wanders off, that is all perfectly normal. You’ll also find more tips and information on the National Year of Reading website.
World Book Day at Pendley
World Book Day is all about celebrating stories and encouraging children to discover the joy of reading. We will be marking the day (Thursday 5 March) at the nursery with activities, stories and book themed fun, all designed to feel inclusive and relaxed.
We will also be inviting the children and staff to dress up for World Book Day, making the day even more fun and memorable.
You can find out more about the day and its aims on the official World Book Day website.
Creating readers for life
Falling in love with books does not happen overnight. It grows from warm, shared experiences and positive feelings around stories. By introducing children to books early and making reading a happy part of everyday life, we are helping to give them a wonderful gift that lasts far beyond their early years.
If you would like ideas for books to share at home or want to chat about how we support early literacy at Pendley, please feel free to speak to a member of the team. We are always happy to help.
Telephone: 01442 967140 or email us at: info@pendleydaynursery.com.
