Start your Own Parent-Child Book Club
Imagine carving out a little time each week to connect with your child—just the two of you—over a great book! A parent (or other caregiver)/child book club isn’t just about reading; it’s about strengthening your bond, sparking meaningful conversations, and sharing stories that inspire and empower.
The best part? It’s simple! You don’t need a big group which may be distracting. Instead, form the group with you, your child, and a book. Here’s how to start:
Step 1: Set a Cozy Routine
Pick a time that works for both of you—whether it’s Saturday morning pancakes and pages, a bedtime chapter a few nights a week, or a weekend coffee shop outing with your books in hand. Consistency makes it feel special and something you’ll both look forward to!
Step 2: Choose the Right Book
Look for books with relatable characters, fun adventures, and themes that spark conversation. Here’s a great list to start with:
📖 Madison is Possibly, Probably, Positively Guilty by Karolyn Kearney. Themes: Adoption, Bullying, Friendships. Ages 8-12. Order it here:https://shorturl.at/my0zi
📖 Kami Visits Connecticut, Georgia, and Idaho (BIG HUGS for Kids - Learn and Move Series) by Lisa Galdos. Themes: Adventure, Education, Imagination. Ages: 3-7
Order it here: https://shorturl.at/ZSFmC
📖 The Great Monster Feet Experiment by Debbie Jesse. Themes: Self-Acceptance, Friendship, Imagination. Ages: 7-12. Order it here: https://shorturl.at/y8uTb
Choose the book together—it’ll encourage a conversation that leads to a love of reading.
Step 3: Keep It Fun, Not Formal
This isn’t school—there’s no pressure to analyze every chapter. Instead:
Read together or separately. Take turns reading aloud, or each read on your own and chat later.
Mix it up. Listen to an audiobook on a car ride, or bring the book along on a picnic.
Get creative. Try a simple craft, recipe, or activity inspired by the story. (Madison is Possibly, Probably, Positively Guilty includes “Grandma Grace’s Secret Meatball Recipe” and could inspire future chefs!)
Step 4: Spark Meaningful Conversations
Books naturally open the door to deeper discussions. You don’t need formal questions—just talk! Try:
“What would you do in the main character’s situation?”
“Did this remind you of anything in real life?”
“If you could change one thing about the story, what would it be?”
Let the conversation flow naturally—you might be surprised at what you learn about each other!
Step 5: Celebrate Your Reading Journey
Make it extra special by tracking the books you read together in a journal, taking silly selfies with each finished book, or even planning a fun outing inspired by a favorite story.
The most important thing? Enjoy the time together! A parent-child book club is less about finishing books and more about creating memories—one page at a time.
