Giving books as Christmas gifts can play a vital role in supporting childhood literacy for children of all ages.
With recent studies showing that children who own books are more likely to read for pleasure and perform well academically, books aren’t just gifts—they’re investments in a child's future. And recent reports show that childhood literacy levels in the UK are slipping. So, here's something we can do to address this issue.
Why Books Matter
Books are powerful tools for developing literacy and language skills. They introduce new vocabulary, enhance comprehension, and spark curiosity. Reading also cultivates empathy, understanding, and creativity, helping children learn about different worlds, cultures, and perspectives.
In the digital age, children are exposed to more screen time than ever. Introducing books as cherished items in their lives provides a valuable break from screens, encouraging them to slow down and engage deeply with stories, facts, and illustrations. For children, every book they receive builds their personal library, creating a space that invites exploration and learning in a comfortable and familiar setting.
Choosing the Right Book for Every Age
Not all books are one-size-fits-all. The right book for a toddler will differ vastly from what captivates a teenager. Here’s a quick guide to choosing books that are both age-appropriate and engaging.
Ages 0-3: Board books and interactive picture books with simple text and vibrant illustrations are ideal for young children. Consider books with sensory elements like textures or lift-the-flap features. These not only build basic literacy skills but also help with fine motor development.
Ages 4-6: Picture books with stories that introduce characters, basic plots, and relatable themes help this age group expand their understanding of narrative and develop language skills. Books with rhyme or rhythm can also make reading feel like a fun game.
Ages 7-9: Early chapter books or graphic novels are perfect for this stage, where many children are starting to read independently. Look for engaging series with characters and storylines that build from book to book, helping kids develop a reading habit.
Ages 10-12: For tweens, books that challenge them with longer narratives and more complex characters are ideal. At this stage, children are keen to explore different genres—from adventure and fantasy to mystery and historical fiction.
Teenagers: Young adult (YA) novels are often a great fit for teenagers, tackling themes they can relate to, like friendship, identity, and independence. Non-fiction works, especially biographies, science, or history books, can also be engaging for teens interested in specific topics.
How to Make Books More Exciting as Gifts
Personalise the Experience: Choose a book that speaks to the child’s unique interests, whether it's dinosaurs, space, football, or fantasy worlds. Adding a personalised message inside the cover or including a bookmark makes the gift even more special.
Start a Series: Giving the first book in a series can be a fantastic way to get children hooked on reading. Once they're invested in the characters and plot, they’re more likely to seek out the sequels on their own.
Create a Reading Gift Box: Combine a book with reading-related accessories—such as a cosy blanket, a torch for reading under the covers, or a snack—that encourage the child to settle down and read.
Include an Activity: Many books now come with activity or colouring books based on the same themes or characters. This can extend the reading experience and keep children engaged beyond the page.
Supporting Literacy Beyond Christmas
By gifting books, we contribute not only to a child’s immediate enjoyment but to their future literacy development and lifelong love for reading. When children receive books as gifts, it reinforces the idea that reading is valuable, enjoyable, and worth celebrating.
In the long term, a child who loves reading is more likely to succeed academically, think creatively, and approach life with curiosity and resilience. And while technology continues to shape our world, the simple act of reading remains one of the most impactful ways to foster intellectual and emotional growth in children. Reading to children from their new books can also be a very helpful way to boost childhood literacy and a love of reading.
This Christmas, consider giving the gift of a story, a new world, a big idea—all wrapped up in the pages of a book. It’s a small gesture with the power to change a child’s life, one page at a time.