So many well-meaning parents struggle with getting their child to sit down and listen to a story.

Littles are constantly on the move, and they don’t want to stop and be still.

That challenge can be even greater when a child has ADHD, sensory-seeking behaviors, or other needs.

Here’s the good news:  Reading and Movement are not incompatible!

Here are 5 book features to consider to help keep your active kiddo engaged and in love with reading:

Lift-the-Flap

These types of books aren’t just for babies.  Even non-fiction topics such as neuroscience, genetics, and computer coding can become more interactive, engaging, and accessible when flaps are added to each page.

A few of our favorites:

• Lift-the-Flap Computers and Coding
• See Inside Genes and DNA
• See Inside Atoms and Molecules

Graphic Novel Style

Graphic novel books are full of visuals, in addition to great text and storytelling.  These can be highly engaging to an ADHD, dyslexic, or reluctant reader.

Do you dream of introducing your child to classic literature but feel unable to even imagine him sitting through one page? Try adventuring together through one of these graphic-style classics!

• Alice in Wonderland
• The Wizard of Oz
• The Adventures of Robin Hood

Hands-on Elements

Busy bodies and hands need something to DO while reading or listening to a story.  Picking, peeling, and sticking can help satisfy the need for movement while involving the reader in the story.  Books that encourage actions and full body-movement DURING the reading are also wonderful.  Find a few of my favorites below.

Repositionable Sticker StoryBook

*These “stickers” are unlike anything else I’ve seen!  They are a thick plastic that can be moved and re-stuck countless times!

• All Better
• Time to Brush

Action Books

*No sitting still with these!  They actually TELL the reader to move and what actions to do.

• Yoga Animals at the Seashore
• This is Owl

Audio

When focusing on written words is difficult or there is a need to move, audio is a great solution. These are perfect for auditory learners, as well as struggling readers who can benefit from a multisensory reading experience.

• The Three Little Pigs: Listen and Read
• Raccoon on the Moon and Other Tales

Novelty/Surprise

The element of surprise can help maintain focus and keep boredom away.   Holding a flashlight in hand, shining behind pages to reveal hidden images, and flipping pages can provide a calming experience for fidgety hands.  Darken the room, snuggle under a blanket or reading tent, and play calming music for extra soothing if needed.

Shine-A Light Books:

• On the Construction Site
• The Human Body

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