It's easier than you think to spark a love of reading in children. Just imagine sitting close together, hugging your little one, opening a book full of pictures, poems, stories, or fairy tales — you're opening the door to a whole new universe. Children adore these moments of warmth, connection, and discovery.
We’ve already explored how to build reading habits in kids in our article "How Does Montessori Teach Reading?" Today, let’s focus on another essential part of this journey — creating a reading corner your child will love. A space so cozy and inviting that your little one will reach for a book more often than a screen. Sounds like a dream? Let’s make it happen.
A World of Books: Ideas for Setting Up a Reading Corner
Looking for ideas on how to make reading fun? We’ve got several suggestions that can be used in any kids’ room. These are just general recommendations — feel free to choose one style, mix a few kids reading nook ideas, select your favorite colors, themes, decor, and, most importantly, the books for your little one’s first home library.
Classic Style
Sometimes the secret lies in simplicity. Choose a chair and a table that match your child’s height. Place books on low-standing or wall-mounted shelves, and your nook is ready. This same area can also be used for learning, drawing, or board games. When choosing kids reading nook furniture in a classic style, look for natural materials and calm, soothing colors.
Playful Nook
A Wooden Climbing Playhouse is a wonderful answer to the question of how to make reading fun. You can lay down a Gymnastics Mat at the base of the playhouse, add soft pillows to lean on, and a cozy blanket. It’s a great place for playing, reading, or just flipping through picture books.
Or you can mount a Montessori ramp between the crossbars of the playhouse to create a table (attach the ramp with the smooth side facing up). Then just add a chair, a desk lamp, a favorite book — and it’s ready. If you want the playhouse to feel truly magical, you can even cover the roof with a blanket — it makes the space even cozier. Perfect for reading exciting stories together with older siblings or parents.
Multi-Functional Space
Want your child to see reading as part of play? Combine your reading nook with active, engaging furniture. Ideas for a multi-functional reading corner can include pieces that easily transform or serve multiple purposes.
Climbing Triangle with Tent
A Climbing Triangle with Tent Cover draped over the top becomes a cozy cave for reading. Inside, you can place soft pillows and blankets to create the perfect place to curl up with a book. When your child isn't reading, the triangle remains a great piece of play equipment.
Arch Cushion
Large floor cushions in different shapes and sizes can create a cozy and mobile reading nook anywhere in the room. Pieces, like Arch Cushion, are great for small spaces — just place it in a corner and let the coziness do the rest.
Arch with Cushion
A Large Climbing Arch with Pillow paired with a soft pillow, or the Wooden Baby Rocker, becomes a comfortable place for sitting and reading. The arch itself can be used for climbing and play. Add a soft blanket and enjoy a gentle rocking rhythm while reading.
Cozy Retreat
Every little bookworm needs a cozy retreat to relax with a favorite story:
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Arrange Foam Building Blocks into a soft sofa, reading perch, or even a book cave. These large, soft blocks can be used to build modular couches or chairs. A child can construct their own cozy place for reading, while also developing imagination and motor skills.
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A hanging cocoon chair will become a favorite spot for reading. The gentle swinging motion and feeling of enclosure create a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for diving into a book. Add a pillow and let them snuggle in. The Pod Swing wraps around like a hug, creating a private, cozy atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for reading, listening to music, or simply relaxing.
These calming spots are ideal for sensitive or introverted kids who enjoy their own peaceful space to read.
Where to Keep the Books?
Bookshelves are the main kids reading nook furniture after the table and chair. Choose shelves that your child can easily reach. The more accessible the books, the more likely your child will notice them and want to explore the magical worlds hidden behind the colorful covers.
Use a little marketing trick: store books vertically with their covers facing the room. It may not be the traditional way, but if you’re looking for kids reading nook ideas and want your child to reach for a book more often than a gadget, this is a perfect way to catch their attention. Choose simple floor bookshelves like a Montessori-style Kids Bookshelf.
If you prefer a more classic storage style, go for open shelving that keeps books visible. Options such as the Playroom Bookcase are great. It stands directly on the floor (so your child doesn’t have to stretch) and offers front-facing book storage.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Reading Nook
Here are a few more important details when creating a reading nook for kids room:
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Lighting. Place the nook near a window for natural daylight. Also, don’t forget to add a desk lamp or floor lamp for evening reading sessions.
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Make sure to offer different types of reading spots. For example, the Pod Swing is perfect for diving into a fairy tale, while the table is great for focused learning.
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Add a basket for finished books.
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It’s helpful to regularly rotate in new books, but still keep favorite ones available — the ones your child loves and has practically memorized.
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Try choosing books together — make it a pleasant tradition.
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Host family reading sessions. Everyone reads their own book, then shares what it was about. You may need to wait until your child can read independently to use this tip!
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Creating a cozy and comfortable reading nook for kids room is an investment in your child’s future. Make this space special, filled with a love of books, and you’ll see your little reader happily return to stories again and again.
Creating a cozy and comfortable reading nook for kids room is an investment in your child’s future. Make this corner special and filled with a love of books — and you’ll see how your little reader dives into exciting stories again and again.
