The book nook is a cornerstone of quality early childhood learning environments. This space should be a haven of both tranquillity and excitement, fostering a sense of belonging and wonder.
While traditional book nooks often feature open shelving for children to self select literature, educators can purposefully design this space to spark curiosity and learning. By arranging a range of resources to accompany picture books, we can create aesthetically pleasing and inviting environments that ignite young minds.
Create a cozy, inviting book nook using a combination of natural, processed, and upcycled materials:
Build a secret pathway using large pebbles and mats.
Add a touch of magic with hanging artificial vines, sheer materials and timber lattice.
Inspire imagination with backdrops and posters on the walls.
Bring the natural world inside with small plants.
Arrange soft, textured cushions and rugs.
Use mellow hues on the walls to convey a sense of harmony.
Arrange family photos of children to foster a sense of belonging.
Display recycled treasures, vintage toys or unique artifacts that depict children’s home languages and cultural backgrounds.
Illuminate the space with soft, ambient lamp lighting.
Position furniture of different styles to create a homely feel.
By thoughtfully combining these elements, we can transform the book nook into a cherished space where children feel welcomed and eager to explore the wonderful world of picture books.
Shared reading and story baskets
Educators can ignite childrens curiosity by making books accessible through low shelving and pairing them with resources that encourage storytelling. Assemble ‘story baskets’ using a small collection of puppets and props representing characters, themes, settings, and special moments from each story.
Adding ‘story baskets’ to a book nook space creates rich opportunities for extending children’s learning, by igniting imaginations and conversations about books.
The book nook should be a place where stories come alive, stimulating the senses and sparking the imagination. By carefully curating the book nook, we can create a space that not only encourages shared reading but also fosters a lifelong love of learning.
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