How to help your kids starting a book club

Do you think that only adults can talk about books and literature? I’m convinced that children have a natural curiosity to explore things, to ask the famous ‘why’ question, and the gift to share their thoughts and opinions, no matter what the consequence is.

My kids are too small to start their own book club, but I will definitely encourage them to do so when they are older.

But as I’m a huge fan of lists and writing down everything that crosses my mind, I have already noted some ideas to look at in the future. Curious? Here they are:

First of all, don’t guide them too much. Let them decide how their club should look like, how often they will meet, what books they would like to read, if they will read them together…it’s all about encouraging children to read and not to meet our expectations as parents.

Of course, you can make some suggestions and give them some ideas about what they can discuss to set up their club together.

 

Some of the suggestions/questions I would like to give my daughters are:

  • Where will they meet? Explain to them the example of hosting rotation or the creation of a secret place (you remember the movie ‘Dead Poets Society’?).
  • How often will they meet? This depends on if they will read the book together or everybody on its own. Just give them a gentle reminder that the super excitement from the beginning probably won’t last. This is not to discourage them, but with this ‘knowledge,’ probably they can agree on a reasonable schedule.
  • How can everyone participate in the preparation of each meeting? One can bring snacks; one can bring drinks; one can write down some questions they want to research after their meeting; one can prepare a fun game…you get the point. Don’t guide them here; just give them some examples and let their creativity do the rest!
  • What books will they read? As long it’s in their age range, it doesn’t matter. Engage them to go to the library together to pick one, to read book recommendations, go with them on book festivals and let them fall in love with some books.

As we grown-ups know, every book club is talking about the book, asking questions, and discuss opinions. Our kids may need an idea of what they can talk about after they have finished the book, at least at the beginning. You can engage them to ask their selves those questions:

  • Did you like the story?
  • What did you like/what did you not like?
  • Who was your favorite character? Why?
  • Did you like the ending of the book? Why/why not?

These are just examples to give them some ideas, and you will be surprised by how creative they are to find additional questions!

A book club also a great way to support the author with a little help from you as a parent. Write reviews, share the experience on social media, let your kids talk about the book at their school. This way, you make sure your kids can read many other wonderful books in the future.

What do you think? Will you encourage your kids to start a book club, or do they already have one? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!

 

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