A reading journal is a simple, creative way for young children to capture their journey into books. For under-5s, it isn’t about writing detailed reviews or analysing stories—it’s about building positive, joyful associations with reading. With a little support from parents or carers, a reading journal becomes both a keepsake and a powerful tool for encouraging a lifelong love of books.
What is a reading journal?
At its heart, a reading journal is a record of the books a child has enjoyed. For very young children, this record is mostly visual rather than written. Instead of long sentences, you’ll find drawings, stickers, photos, and simple marks that reflect their experience of a story.
Think of it as part scrapbook, part activity book, and part memory box. It grows alongside your child, capturing not just what they read, but how they felt about it.
How does it foster a love of reading?
For under-5s, reading is as much about connection and enjoyment as it is about learning words. A reading journal supports this in several important ways:
- Makes reading feel special
Recording a book in a journal turns reading into an event. It shows children that stories matter and are worth remembering. - Encourages choice and independence
When children get to draw their favourite character or pick a sticker rating, they begin to express opinions about books—an early step towards becoming an engaged reader. - Builds confidence
There’s no right or wrong way to complete a page. Whether it’s scribbles, colours, or a carefully chosen sticker, every contribution is valid and valued. - Creates positive routines
Adding to the journal after a story can become a calm, enjoyable habit that children look forward to. - Preserves precious memories
Over time, the journal becomes a lovely record of shared reading moments—something families can look back on together.
Tips for creating a reading journal
You don’t need anything fancy to get started. The most effective journals are simple, flexible, and fun.
Keep it visual
Choose a notebook with plenty of space for drawing. Young children will engage far more with pictures than with writing.
Use creative trackers
Try a “reading tree” where your child adds a leaf for each book, or draw a bookshelf and colour in a spine every time you finish a story. These visual cues help children see their progress.
Add simple review elements
Include a basic structure for each book:
- Title (written by an adult if needed)
- Author
- A simple rating system (stars, smiley faces, or even coloured stickers)
Make it interactive
Give space for:
- Drawing favourite characters
- Designing a new book cover
- Colouring a scene from the story
These activities deepen engagement without feeling like work.
Include photos and real-life moments
Stick in photos of your child reading, visiting the library, or holding a favourite book. This helps link reading to real, happy experiences.
Capture small details
Jot down the date, who read the story, and what your child enjoyed most. Even a short comment like “loved the dragon!” adds meaning.
Keep it pressure-free
Not every book needs a full page. Some days might just be a sticker or a quick drawing—and that’s perfectly fine.
Make it a shared activity
Sit together to complete the journal. Your involvement shows that reading is something to enjoy together, not just a solo task.
A reading journal for under-5s isn’t about perfection—it’s about participation. By making it playful, personal, and pressure-free, you’re helping your child build a warm, lasting relationship with books from the very beginning.