Cold Days, Cozy Reads: Fun Family Literacy
Winter break brings a precious gift—time together. As the world slows down and home feels a little warmer, families can enjoy simple moments that build connection, spark imagination, and create memories children will treasure long after the holidays fade.
Create a Cozy Reading Corner
Tuck a few blankets, pillows, and favorite books into a quiet spot. Add twinkle lights or a small lamp and let kids settle in with a warm drink. Even just 10 minutes of quiet reading —together, side by side—is enough to create a peaceful family moment.
Warm cocoa, peppermint tea, or apple cider can turn reading into a small celebration. Take turns reading aloud or let older children read to younger siblings. It’s a simple way to slow down and enjoy each other’s company.
Try a Gentle Winter Reading Challenge
Encourage playful reading moments like:
- Reading under a blanket
- Reading next to the tree
- Reading a snowy book
- Reading with a pet or stuffed friend
Add small rewards like stickers or extra marshmallows to make it extra fun.
Cook and Read in the Kitchen
Reading recipes together is a wonderful way to build literacy while making memories. Let your child stir, pour, or read aloud ingredients. Create a “family recipe book” where you save your favorite winter treats year after year.
Tell Your Own Winter Stories
Invite kids to invent stories using drawings, story dice, or winter-themed words. These homemade tales often become the sweetest keepsakes—little snapshots of imagination and family laughter.
Start a Winter Reading Night
Choose one evening to unplug and simply read together. Picture books, chapter books, graphic novels… anything goes! End by sharing a favorite part. It’s a family tradition kids will look forward to every year. These simple moments help children grow as readers and create memories that feel just as warm as a cozy blanket on a chilly day.
Wet Cement: A mix of concrete poems by Bob Raczka
Jim Trelease’s Read-Aloud Handbook, 8th edition. Edited and revised by Cyndi Giorgis.








