How to Start a Book Club For Kids A book club is a fun way to not only encourage your child’s reading but also to foster connection. And a kids’ book club isn’t something reserved for schools or libraries. It’s something you can start in your very own home. Here are the secret ingredients you need to get one started.
The Club
First off, decide what type of club you want and who will be in it. Is it a family book club with Mom and Dad? Or maybe one with grandparents? Or is it a special one with friends? Once you know who’s in the club, decide how you’ll meet. Meeting up with friends to share snacks and conversation is always fun, but a book club can still work virtually over FaceTime and Zoom. Virtual meetings are a great way to stay connected and mean you can get together with friends or family who might not live nearby.
The Book
There are many options for picking your book -- from new releases to old classics. Maybe you want to theme your book club and only read mysteries or books that take place around the world. Once you decide on your book, pick a date for your book club meeting. Give yourself enough time. Everyone will want to have finished reading the book before your meeting.
The Chat
As you read, write down some questions for discussion. These are NOT comprehension questions. There are no right or wrong answers. You want questions that will lead to conversation. We find that 15-20 minutes is a good goal for your first discussions. They’ll build with each meeting. And don’t worry about not liking a book after you finish reading it. Some of our best discussions have come from hearing everyone’s different perspectives.
The Activity
How many of us read Peter Pan or Treasure Island and spent days pretending to sword-fight? This is the chance to really open up the world of the book and offer some hands-on, imaginative learning. Is there a skill or craft that the characters do? Like baking bread or creating pottery? Let your kids try their hand at the same thing.
The Snacks
We are firm believers that cookies are never optional. Because, let’s be honest, everything is better with snacks. We’ve also learned that snacks are a great trick to get kids to rush to the table to discuss a book! Try a recipe for something your characters would eat. Or theme a meal around your book’s setting. It’s amazing how even a bowl of rice suddenly becomes magical when you’re sharing it with your characters.
Read. Share. Imagine. www.mycrateexpectations.com