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Have you ever felt self-conscious reading aloud to your child? That strange feeling of performing for an audience, struggling with character voices, or wondering if you're "doing it right" when your child interrupts or wanders off mid-story? You're not alone.

Reading aloud transforms both reader and listener, but rarely in the picture-perfect way we imagine. Drawing from my own journey—from awkwardly reading Roald Dahl to my newborn to now sharing magical reading moments with my children—I unpack the essential elements that make read-aloud time meaningful rather than merely performative.

The foundation begins with selecting books that spark joy for both of you. Children intuitively sense when adults are genuinely engaged versus going through the motions. Reading slowly allows young minds to absorb language and create mental images, while simple voice variations—changing volume, pitch, or pace—create character distinction without requiring theatrical training. Those dreaded interruptions? They're actually signs of deep engagement, often leading to meaningful conversations about school, friendships, or worries that wouldn't emerge through direct questioning.

Perhaps most reassuring is understanding that movement during storytime is normal and beneficial. Research shows many children absorb stories better when their bodies are active. That child doing cartwheels during Charlotte's Web might remember more details than the one sitting perfectly still! The goal isn't perfect execution but connection—creating a foundation for lifelong reading and relationship building.

Whether you're reading to a newborn, a fidgety toddler, or a questioning school-aged child, remember that your unique reading journey, with all its beautiful imperfections, is exactly what your child needs. Follow me on Instagram @TeaTalesandTomes for more bookish inspiration!

Find us on Instagram @teatalesandtomes and don't forget to join us next time for more bookish wonder.

Podcast music by Lundstroem (Episode 1 onwards) and Audionautix (TTAT Trailer). Podcast edited by Timothy Wiggill.