Getting kids to slow down isn’t easy — unless they’ve got the perfect place to settle in. A comfortable chair, gentle light, and a few favorite books can turn quiet moments into something they look forward to. With National Young Readers Week celebrating the joy of stories, it’s the perfect time to build a corner that helps imagination grow. When you’re ready to start, our experts at Pieratt's can help you choose the right pieces to make reading time feel extra inviting.
Comfort Comes First
The right chair can turn “Do I have to read?” into “Just one more chapter!” When kids feel comfortable, reading starts to feel less like homework and more like an escape. All it takes is the right mix of softness, support, and a little personality.
- Kid-sized chairs: Mini versions of grown-up favorites make reading feel special. A small recliner or cushy accent chair gives them their own spot — no grown-ups allowed.
- Bean bags & loungers: These are the MVPs for wiggly readers. Easy to drag, flop, or spin, they make storytime fun and flexible.
- Durable, cozy fabrics: Soft upholstery, such as microfiber or sherpa, keeps things snuggly, while stain-resistant options make cleanup a breeze.
- Add a small table: A side table gives their nook that “real reading spot” feel — perfect for stacking their favorites or keeping a cup of cocoa close by.
Light It Up Right
Good lighting can make or break a reading nook. Too bright and it feels like homework time — too dim, and they’ll be squinting instead of smiling. Finding that warm, just-right glow helps turn reading into something kids actually look forward to.
- Warm-toned lamps: Soft, golden light feels calm and cozy — ideal for winding down with bedtime stories.
- Adjustable floor lamps: Great for growing kids or shared spaces. You can tilt or raise them as their favorite reading spot changes.
- Natural light: A window seat or corner near sunlight makes daytime reading brighter and more inviting.
- Fun touches: Twinkle lights or gentle string lamps add that storybook sparkle kids can’t resist.
Pro Tip:
If the nook doubles as a play space, try a dimmable lamp. Bright for crafts, soft for storytime — it’s one switch, two moods.
Smart Storage for Tiny Libraries
Every reader needs a good place to keep their treasures. When books are easy to see and reach, kids are more likely to grab one — even without a reminder! The trick is to mix function with a little bit of fun, so the space stays tidy without losing its charm.
- Low bookcases: Short shelves make every title an easy reach for little hands. Bonus: they double as display space for their favorite covers.
- Storage benches: Perfect for small rooms where space does double duty. They hide the clutter, hold the books, and give kids a comfy spot to sit.
- Floating shelves: A great way to show off a rotating “book of the week” or a few stuffed animal reading buddies.
- Rolling bins or baskets: Light enough for kids to move around — and makes cleanup part of the routine.
Pro Tip:
Keep the selection fresh by swapping out a few books every month. It keeps kids curious and gives old favorites a moment to shine again.
Style Meets Imagination
The best reading nooks feel a little bit magical — not because they’re fancy, but because they feel like theirs. A few thoughtful touches can transform any corner into a space that sparks both curiosity and comfort simultaneously.
- Soft rugs & throws: These set the stage for coziness and help define the nook. A plush rug underfoot or a fuzzy blanket over the chair adds instant warmth.
- Color cues: Warm neutrals calm the space, while pops of cheerful color — think sunny yellow or ocean blue — keep it playful.
- Themed touches: Let your child’s imagination lead the way. A space-themed pillow or woodland-print chair brings personality without overpowering the room.
- Furniture with character: Choose a chair or bench with texture, pattern, or a unique silhouette that makes the nook feel like a special destination.
Where Stories Come to Life
The best reading spots aren’t about how they look — they’re about how they feel. A soft seat, warm lighting, and a little corner that’s all their own can turn storytime into something kids treasure.
If National Young Readers Week has you inspired, stop by Pieratt's. Our experts can help you find the right seating, lighting, and storage to build a space that fits your family’s rhythm. Come in with questions, leave with ideas — and create a cozy spot where stories take center stage.