As parents, we often read bedtime stories to our children to promote a love for reading and bonding time. However, some children may resist the idea of traditional bedtime stories.

This can be frustrating and make parents feel like they are failing their child. But fear not, there are many alternatives to traditional bedtime stories that your child may enjoy.

1. Choose age-appropriate books

One reason your child may be resisting bedtime stories could be that they are not interested in the books you are choosing. Consider selecting books that are more age-appropriate and align with your child’s interests.

Remember that just because a book is a classic, it may not resonate with your child.

2. Let your child choose the book

Children love to feel like they have control, so giving them the power to choose their bedtime story can be empowering and enjoyable for them. Allow your child to select a book they are interested in, and let them lead the storytime session.

3. Try audiobooks

If your child is a more auditory learner, they may enjoy listening to audiobooks as opposed to traditional reading. Audiobooks also make for a great compromise if you are too tired to read aloud.

You can find a wide variety of children’s audiobooks on sites like Audible or through your local library.

4. Use storytelling prompts

Some children may be more interested in creating their own story rather than listening to someone else’s. Use storytelling prompts to stimulate their imagination and allow them to create their own bedtime story.

For example, prompt them with “Once upon a time, there was a magical world filled with unicorns and dragons. What happens next?”.

5. Incorporate movement

Children have a lot of energy, and sitting still for a story may not be an activity they are interested in. Incorporate movement into your storytime by having your child act out different scenes or characters.

This will make for a much more engaging and fun storytime experience.

6. Make it interactive

Engage your child in the story by asking them questions as you go along. Ask them what they think will happen next or how they would feel if they were the character in the story.

This will help build their listening and comprehension skills, and make for a more interactive and enjoyable storytime.

7. Use technology

If your child is resistant to traditional bedtime stories, try incorporating technology into your storytime. There are many educational apps and games that involve reading and storytelling, such as interactive storybooks or reading games.

These apps often have fun animations and sounds that can make reading more engaging for children.

8. Be consistent

Children respond well to consistency, so make sure to set aside time each night for storytime. Stick to a routine so your child knows what to expect, and make storytime a relaxing and enjoyable part of your routine.

9. Don’t force it

Remember that not every child will be interested in traditional bedtime stories, and that’s okay.

Don’t force your child to sit through a story if they are not interested – this can lead to a negative association with reading altogether. Instead, try different methods of promoting reading and encourage your child to find what works best for them.

10. Get creative

Finally, remember that there are many ways to promote a love for reading outside of traditional bedtime stories. You can try writing stories with your child, creating reading challenges, or even visiting the library together.

The key is to make reading a fun and enjoyable activity for your child.