Cozy Book Nook Ideas for Kids

Depending on where you live in the world, the view from your window right now might look less than sunny. While there’s a lot to be said for outdoor playtime whatever the season, there’s nothing quite like cozying up on colder days with a really good book. 

book opened on person's legs

Books are an integral part of childhood development, helping to improve learning, focus and imagination, as well as being fun. When it’s too chilly to go outside, books can take you places you have never been before, all from the comfort of their very own cozy nook. 

Cozy Corner

Your child’s reading nook can be as elaborate or as simple as you like, depending on your available budget and space. One idea is to simply place seating in a corner beside a bookshelf. Kasala has a comfy armchair collection that’s well worth a look.

Magical Den

If your child loves the idea of reading in their own little den, you could place floor cushions inside a pop-up tent (or for added comfort, bean-bags). Add a few LED string lights for extra ambience and voilà: a fairytale reading grotto. 

Find Your Niche

It might be that your home comes with a design feature that’s waiting to be turned into a snug little nook: recessed areas of rooms like niches or alcoves are perfect for creating nooks: simply add some comfortable seating with a bookshelf that’s within easy reach. 

woman sitting on bed while holding book

Window Seat

Even without a window-seat, you can still create one of your own by placing a small loveseat couch in front of a window. Not only does this allow for lots of natural light to read by, but there’s something special about being able to look up every few pages and gaze out at the view.

Up And Away

For smaller homes, space-saving furniture ideas like loft beds are a must. Recommended for ages six and up, these beds can come with integrated under-bed seating, creating a readymade nook. Keep in mind any potential safety issues, as this may not be one for sleep walkers.

Some Extra Tips

Get Inspired

To make the designing part extra fun, ask your child what kind of colors or theme they’d like for their nook. They can even make a moodboard of ideas using images from home decor magazines, comics, games; anything that inspires them and makes the space somewhere they’ll enjoy.

You can then use this as your own inspiration to decorate their reading nook. Some popular themes include zoo animals, outer space, under the sea or fairytale kingdom. Alternatively if they have a favorite color you can simply base the overall look around that and add patterned pillows and blankets for extra visual interest.

Book Nooks for Every Child

Children with disabilities shouldn’t have to miss out on all the fun. The key is to make it safe, comfortable and aligned with their individual needs. This could mean low lights, soft seating and accessible formats like braille or books with large print or high-contrast pictures.

For children with sensory needs, keeping things simple helps keep stimulation to a minimum, allowing them to focus on their favorite story. Audio books are another great idea for children who find physical copies more challenging, as it allows the recording to “read along” with them.