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Creating a Magical Reading Experience for Kids: Halloween Style

October 01, 2024 by Amanda Zieba

Have you ever wondered what Disney does better than anyone else? They create an unforgettable experience. From the moment you enter their parks, every moment feels magical.

As adults, we often seek exceptional environments that enhance our experiences. We choose restaurants, vacation spots, and stores based on how they make us feel, both physically and emotionally.

The same is true for many of us when we read. When I’m at home I’ll seek out a comfy chair and grab a blanket. If I’m on campus, I’ll find a spot that is quiet and as cozy as possible, maybe sit near a window or potted plant. If I stumble upon a bench in a perfect patch of sunlight and there’s no wind, or I’m on vacation and discover a lobby filled with greenery and a fountain… these places improve my reading experience. My increased level of level of comfort and enchantment, make reading, an activity I already love, even better.

Imagine if we dedicated time and effort to creating a reading experience for kids. What if we “Disney-fied” our classrooms, turning them into inviting spaces where students not only want to be, but also want to read?

I’ve been exploring Instagram for fun Halloween decor ideas—the easy, budget-friendly ones that make a big visual impact. You can find a selection below. Pair these crafty decorations with some lawn furniture cushions or comfy seating (with washable covers), and watch your young readers immerse themselves in their stories. Click each image below to go to the original Instagram post and learn how to make them!

DIY ghost candy bucket for trick or treaters
paper towel roll harry potter floating candle
Batty Light
Front Porch Halloween Candles
Dollar Store DIY skeleton hand shelves
Bloody Halloween Candle made with crayola crayons

If you’re looking for spooky reading suggestions to match your Halloween-themed classroom, don’t miss this MG/YA First Chapter Friday playlist: Watch Here. Maybe you could even serve up some yummy Halloween inspired treats, like the vampire donuts!

To get more ideas just like this, ideas meant to take some planning work off your plate and also increase student engagement, click here to sign up for my email list and get 5 GOOD THINGS for TEACHERS delivered twice a month.

To try out a sample of my membership, The Word Nerd Collaborative, with a free, full week of lesson plans, click here.

Happy Halloween and Happy Reading!

~ Amanda

October 01, 2024 /Amanda Zieba
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