We all know reading to kids is important.

Every article, every pediatrician, every early literacy expert reminds us that daily reading builds vocabulary, attention, comprehension, and connection.

But here’s what those articles don’t always say: Most kids don't sit still for story time.

When I read to my children, someone is upside down on the couch, someone is practicing a cartwheel, and someone else is wandering in and out of the room grabbing snacks.

Somehow we forgot that the goal isn’t “quiet bodies.”

A. Choose Books That Invite Movement (Ages 1–5)

CLICK HERE FOR LINKS TO ALL MY FAVE BOOKS that invite movement

These get kids involved physically, which can increase attention, joy, and comprehension.

My Picks!

(CLICK HERE to see ALL OF MY FAVES)

Wave to your new cloud friend!

Do yoga poses while you read!

Kiss those cheeks!

Press here and see what happens to the yellow dot!

B. Give Their Bodies Something to Do While You Read

CLICK HERE FOR LINKS TO ALL MY FAVES

For many kids, busy hands mean open ears. Try giving them:

• A soft fidget or sensory ring

• Playdough, putty, or modeling clay

• Crayons and a coloring page

• A squeeze toy

• Legos to build something from the story

Or my faves...

Do yoga!

Or BOUNCE!

OR SWING!!

Their bodies stay active, but their minds stay with you and the book.

C. Read at Times They’re Already Contained or Calm

If bedtime reading feels like a wrestling match, choose a different moment. Some of the best read-aloud times are when kids are naturally still:

• Sitting buckled in a car seat

• Eating a snack at the counter

• Sitting on the potty

• Riding in the stroller

• Taking a bath

• Waiting in a doctor's office

There is no rule that says reading must happen at night in a quiet bedroom. The right time is the time that works.

D. Use Audiobooks While They Play or Move

CLICK HERE FOR OUR FAVORITE AUDIOBOOKS!

Audiobooks “count” as reading exposure. They build vocabulary, comprehension, and listening stamina. And kids can listen while they:

• Build with blocks

• Draw

• Play with dolls or cars

• Jump on the trampoline

• Do puzzles

• Clean up toys

• Ride in the car

Movement + audio storytelling is powerful—especially for kids who process language better when their bodies aren’t restricted.

The Big Picture

Your child doesn’t need to sit still to enjoy stories, absorb language, or become a lifelong reader.

They just need access to books and a caregiver who reads with them.

Movement isn’t the enemy of reading.
For many kids, movement is the pathway to reading.

Let them wiggle.
Let them flop.
Let them roll around.
And keep reading.