As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, a brand-new chapter begins – and what better way to fill it than with stories that spark joy, imagination, and connection? Whether your family is already brimming with bookworms or looking to make reading a regular habit, setting a family reading goal for 2025 can be a delightful and rewarding adventure.

Here’s everything you need to know to get started, from the benefits of reading together to creative ideas for tracking your progress!

Why Family Reading Goals Matter

1. Builds Stronger Bonds:
   Reading as a family creates precious moments of togetherness. Sharing stories, discussing characters, and laughing (or crying!) together strengthens your connection and gives you something magical to look forward to.
2. Sparks Curiosity and Creativity:
   Books open up new worlds, ideas, and perspectives. Whether it’s exploring a fantasy realm, diving into history, or learning about the wonders of nature, every story fuels young minds with inspiration.
3. Cultivates a Lifelong Habit:
   When children see their family making time for reading, it sets an example they’ll carry into adulthood. A love for books is a gift that keeps on giving.

Setting Your Family Reading Goal

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to setting a goal – tailor it to your family’s interests, schedules, and reading habits. Here’s how to start:

1. Decide on a Number of Books or Pages:
   Start with a realistic target. Maybe it’s 12 books in 12 months, or 1,000 pages across the year. You could even break it down by family member – each person reads 5 books, or you read 25 books together.
2. Mix It Up:
   Include a variety of books: picture books, chapter books, graphic novels, nonfiction, and audiobooks. Everyone in the family can pick titles that excite them, ensuring a mix of interests.
3. Create a Family Reading List:
   Kick off with a brainstorming session where everyone suggests books they’d love to read. From timeless classics to new releases, make a list that reflects your family’s unique tastes.

Fun Ways to Track Your Progress

1. Create a Reading Chart or Calendar:
   Draw a big, colourful chart to hang on your wall. Each time a book is finished, add a sticker or checkmark. Watching the progress grow is incredibly motivating!
2. Build a “Book Tower”:
   Stack each book you finish into a physical pile. By year’s end, you’ll have a towering monument to your reading adventure!
3. Use a Digital Tracker:
   Apps like Goodreads or even a simple spreadsheet can help you track books, set goals, and celebrate milestones.
4. Reward Your Achievements:
   Celebrate when you hit milestones, like completing 5 books or finishing your first family read-aloud. Rewards could be as simple as a special dessert or a trip to the library for more books.

Tips for Sticking with It

1. Make Reading Part of Your Routine: Set aside time daily or weekly to read together, such as before bed or after dinner.
2. Take Turns Reading Aloud: Share the role of storyteller, with each family member getting a turn.
3. Discuss the Stories: After finishing a book, chat about favourite parts, characters, or lessons learned.

Every Story Is an Adventure

No matter how many books your family reads this year, the real treasure lies in the moments you’ll share and the worlds you’ll explore together. So grab your favourite blanket, pick up a book, and dive in – 2025 is ready to be your most story-filled year yet!

How many books will your family read this year? Let us know your goals and favourite picks!