Celebration of Books Activity and Reading Corner

Celebration of Books Activity and Reading Corner

Create a recognisable space for books and conversation with the Celebration of Books Activity and Reading Corner. This themed resource can help an early years setting establish a place to gather for stories, discuss characters and develop new narratives through shared play.

Ideas for early years activities

Begin with a short story and ask children to talk about a character, setting or event. Give them time to notice details and listen to other suggestions. An adult can demonstrate how to build on an idea, then invite the group to invent an alternative ending or a new meeting between characters.

Use the corner for a regular read-aloud routine, a small-group conversation or a child-led story session. Separately supplied books and resources can change the focus without replacing the setting. Keep the activity accessible by accepting spoken ideas, gestures and listening as different ways to participate.

Using the resource in your setting

Plan a short, manageable activity around the group's interests. Introduce one prompt at a time and give children space to respond in their own way. The resource can act as a familiar focus, while an adult provides the language, questions and support that make the activity meaningful.

Choose a suitable location within your room and allow enough space for the planned activity. Keep the resource separate from accessories used to demonstrate an idea, and check the supplied items when planning your set-up.

Features and benefits

• Reading engagement and imaginative storytelling: offers a theme for adult-led discussion and child-led ideas. Use it to begin a conversation and follow the interests that children bring to the activity.
• Flexible group use: suitable as a focus for a planned small-group session or a familiar classroom routine. Vary the length and style of the activity to suit those taking part.
• Opportunities to listen and respond: shared activities can include asking questions, describing an idea and hearing another viewpoint. Adults can model turn-taking and leave time for different responses.
• Connections with books and play: separately supplied stories and appropriate resources can extend the theme. They are optional additions to your activity and are not included with this product.
• A reusable activity focus: return to the theme with a new prompt, story or classroom situation. Repetition can offer a familiar starting point while leaving room for new ideas.

Product details

• Space required: 150 × 100 × 100 cm.
• Cushions and playmat are sold separately.