National Young Readers Week 2026

Every November, we celebrate National Young Readers Week, a time to recognize the power of stories and the wonder that unfolds when a child opens a book. Reading isn’t just a skill; it nurtures curiosity, strengthens thinking, and inspires young minds to explore, imagine, and dream big.

When children start reading early, they’re not just learning letters and sounds, they’re building the foundation for a lifetime of learning. Studies show that kids who are exposed to books from a young age develop stronger language skills, richer vocabularies, and sharper focus.

A bedtime story, a picture book, or even a comic strip can spark a child’s imagination in ways that screens can’t. Reading activates both sides of the brain, the logical and the creative, helping kids connect ideas, recognize patterns, and develop empathy.

The best way to nurture a lifelong love of reading is simple: make it joyful.
Here are a few easy ways to keep reading at the heart of your week — and your home:

• Read aloud together-The shared experience builds connection and makes stories come alive.
• Celebrate progress, not pages. A few minutes a day adds up to a big difference.
• Create a cozy reading space — a blanket fort, a comfy chair, or a corner with a stack of favorite books.
• Let kids choose their books. Ownership builds enthusiasm and independence.
• Model reading. When kids see adults enjoying books, they learn that reading is a lifelong adventure.

Another wonderful way to incorporate reading into a busy schedule is by pairing a book with an activity. This time of year, many of us love visiting apple orchards. While you’re there, bring along a book about apples to enjoy while snacking on one — or even better, while savoring an apple cider donut!

Reading stories that connect to real-life experiences can spark meaningful conversations and make reading more engaging for children. A great apple-themed book to try is “Apple Picking Day!” by Candice Ransom.

If you’re spending time outside raking up all those beautiful fall leaves, that’s another perfect chance to mix reading and fun! Try reading a story about leaves, then collect a few to compare with the ones in the book. This kind of hands-on connection keeps children curious and helps build their vocabulary. A couple leaf-themed books to enjoy is “Leaves” by David Ezra Stein and “Fletcher and the Falling Leaves” by Julia Rawlinson.

Another great way to spark a love of reading is by taking a trip to the library. Encourage your child to look for books about apples or leaves, turning it into a mini scavenger hunt you can enjoy together. Letting children explore the shelves and choose their own books makes reading feel like an adventure they can’t wait to begin!

By: Lisa Bock, CCR&R Director