Not all heroes wear capes... and not all kids reading gifts should just sit on a dusty shelf! The best reading gifts spark creativity, ignite imaginations, and bring families closer together (think cozy storytime snuggles or giggly puppet shows).
Look for options that are:
- Interactive: Let the child engage, not just consume. (Bonus points if it gets their hands AND minds moving!)
- Memorable: The best gifts evolve over time, growing with the child and the stories they tell.
- Creative-friendly: Gifts that encourage storytelling, drawing, acting, or even light show performances.
- Family-building: Think shared experiences and moments that glue families together tighter than a peanut butter sandwich.
When you pick a gift that goes beyond the "oh that’s nice" moment, you're giving a child the magic of connection, imagination, and pride. (And trust me, watching a kid beam because they “directed” a shadow show? Priceless.)
So next time you’re hunting for kids reading gifts, aim for something they’ll live, not just shelve.
TL;DR
The right kids reading gifts are like little magic seeds, they don’t just grow strong readers, they grow bold dreamers! Beyond boosting literacy, they sprinkle kids with confidence, spark wild storytelling adventures, and help build cozy habits that stick around long after the last page is turned. One great gift today could inspire a lifetime of “just one more chapter” nights, secret notebook scribbles, and big, brave ideas!
- SHAPLABOO Shadow Play Books
- SHAPLABOO Create Your Story Sets
- Reading Journals
- Story Dices
- Scented Bookmarks
- Guided Reading Strips
- Lap Beanbag Book Stand
- Book Stickers
- Reading Tents
- Book-Themed T-Shirts
- Reading Blanket
11 Top Picks of Reading Gifts for Kids
Ready to sprinkle some reading magic around? ✨ Here’s your treasure map to the best gift for readers — each one a little adventure wrapped in a bow!
1. SHAPLABOO Shadow Play Books
Perfect for kids who love a little drama (the fun kind!) and parents who want more interactive storytime moments. These best reading gifts combine storytelling with showtime, encouraging kids to jump into the tale.
Choose from classics like The Jungle Book, Puss in Boots, and The Wizard of Oz. Whether you have a mini explorer, a clever trickster, or a daydreaming wizard at home, there’s a SHAPLABOO shadow adventure waiting!
2. SHAPLABOO Create Your Story Sets
SHAPLABOO’s Create Your Story Sets let kids craft their own legendary tales. Each kit comes packed with laser-cut shadow scenes, letting kids direct, act, and perform right on their bedroom walls.
No batteries, no screens just pure imagination running wild! It’s one of those kids reading gifts that feels more like giving a kid their own stage and spotlight.
Whether it’s haunted mansions or magical worlds, these sets let kids become the heroes (or villains!) of their own storytime sagas.
3. Reading Journals
Let’s be real: kids have so many thoughts swirling around — why not give them a cozy place to park all that imagination?
A reading journal is more than just a notebook. It’s a place for kids to scribble down favorite quotes, sketch their wildest book worlds, jot mini-reviews (complete with star ratings, obviously!), and even set personal reading goals.
The best part? It grows with them! Kids can look back years later and say, “Whoa, I really thought dragons were the ultimate book heroes at age seven!”
If you’re hunting for gifts for kids who love reading, this is pure gold. You’re giving them the space to reflect, dream, and remember every page-turning adventure.
4. Story Dice
Imagine rolling a handful of dice... and out tumbles a story about a space dog, a sneaky wizard, and a flying sandwich.
Story dice are the ultimate spark plug for little imaginations! Each roll gives kids a jumble of characters, settings, and plot twists to weave together.
There’s no right or wrong way — just endless possibilities and giggles. They can spin tales at bedtime, invent lunchtime adventures, or even use them during car rides for some backseat storytelling battles.
If you’re looking for gifts for kids who love reading but also love to create, these dice are a sure bet. Every roll brings a brand-new adventure!
5. Scented Bookmarks
Ever wished your book smelled like vanilla cupcakes or fresh strawberries?
Scented bookmarks are tiny slices of happiness tucked between the pages. Every time a kid opens their book, a little whiff of sweetness floats up and bam! reading just became the coziest thing ever.
Plus, scented bookmarks are sneaky smart associating delightful smells with reading helps kids want to come back to their books again and again.
If you’re hunting for quirky, unforgettable kids reading gifts, don’t underestimate the power of a nose-tickling bookmark. Small? Yes. Mighty? Absolutely.
6. Guided Reading Strips
Guided reading strips highlight just one line of text at a time, helping kids focus better, track words more easily, and build reading confidence faster than you can say “Once upon a time.”
These magical strips are especially helpful for kids who struggle with dyslexia, ADHD, or who simply get overwhelmed by big blocks of text. (Because let’s be real, walls of tiny words can be scarier than a haunted house!)
If you're searching for reading gifts that feel like a superpower tool for little learners, guided strips deserve a spot in the cart.
7. Lap Beanbag Book Stand
Enter: the lap beanbag book stand! It’s like giving kids their own little reading throne. Whether they’re sprawled out on the couch, curled up in bed, or flopped dramatically on the floor (because drama happens), this stand props up books, tablets, or e-readers at just the right angle.
No more neck craning! No more “my arms are tired!” complaints!
If you want gifts for book readers that say “I see you, little reading royalty,” this comfy lifesaver totally fits the crown.
8. Book Stickers
Book stickers let kids decorate their journals, favorite novels, reading nooks, or even water bottles with a burst of bookish pride. Think cute animals holding books, inspirational reading quotes, or magical castles made of pages.
Not only do they jazz up plain surfaces, but they also give kids a fun way to claim their reading spaces. "This water bottle? Yeah, it's mine, and it loves books too."
Plus, they’re super affordable, so if you need the best gift for readers that's both personal and party-worthy, sticker packs are an instant win.
9. Reading Tents
Pop up a reading tent, toss in some fairy lights and fluffy pillows, and voilà — you’ve built a bookworm’s dream cave. Kids get their own private little world to dive deep into dragons, pirates, or galaxy-exploring bunnies.
It’s not just cozy, it’s empowering! A reading tent says, “This is your adventure zone. Go wild!”
When you're browsing for the best reading gifts, a tent isn't just a gift, it’s a whole vibe. (Bonus: it keeps the living room a little less book-strewn. You’re welcome.)
10. Book-Themed T-Shirts
Pop up a reading tent, toss in some fairy lights and fluffy pillows, and voilà — you’ve built a bookworm’s dream cave. Kids get their own private little world to dive deep into dragons, pirates, or galaxy-exploring bunnies.
It’s not just cozy, it’s empowering! A reading tent says, “This is your adventure zone. Go wild!”
When you're browsing for the best reading gifts, a tent isn't just a gift, it’s a whole vibe. (Bonus: it keeps the living room a little less book-strewn. You’re welcome.)
11. Reading Blanket
Pop up a reading tent, toss in some fairy lights and fluffy pillows, and voilà — you’ve built a bookworm’s dream cave. Kids get their own private little world to dive deep into dragons, pirates, or galaxy-exploring bunnies.
It’s not just cozy, it’s empowering! A reading tent says, “This is your adventure zone. Go wild!”
When you're browsing for the best reading gifts, a tent isn't just a gift, it’s a whole vibe. (Bonus: it keeps the living room a little less book-strewn. You’re welcome.)
What Makes SHAPLABOO Different
In a world stuffed with plastic toys and flashy gadgets, SHAPLABOO feels like stumbling into a secret garden of imagination.
Their best reading gifts aren't just about reading — they’re about experiencing the story. Every SHAPLABOO product invites kids to step right into the tale, to make the magic happen themselves. They're not passive readers. They're directors, actors, dreamers, and storytellers!
Some sparkly things that make SHAPLABOO shine:
Interactive Storytelling: Instead of staring at a screen, kids jump up, move around, create characters, and act out adventures.
Screen-Free Fun: It’s all about good old-fashioned imagination — no batteries, apps, or beeping noises required!
Family Connection: Whether it’s putting on a shadow show or inventing new endings together, SHAPLABOO products turn reading into a team sport.
And honestly? Watching a kid grab the flashlight, cast a wild dragon shadow on the wall, and proudly announce, “Once upon a time…” might just be the best gift you’ll ever get too. 🐉📖
When it comes to finding the best reading gifts that light up kids' eyes (and give their imaginations a serious workout), SHAPLABOO hits the bullseye every single time.
