Storytime should feel like a safe little pocket in the day — a place where kids can relax, listen, and let their imaginations wander. But for some children, especially those who are neurodivergent, the typical storytime setting can feel overwhelming. Bright lights, loud voices, lots of movement — it can be too much all at once.
The good news? With just a few small changes, you can create a sensory-friendly storytime that works beautifully for every child. And the best part is, when kids feel safe and comfortable, they are free to truly enjoy the story.
Tips To Use At Home
Here are some simple tips you can use at home, in classrooms, or even in the library.
1. Set the scene gently
Before you even open the book, think about the space. Dim the lights a little, close the blinds if it’s too bright, or add a soft lamp. If there are lots of background noises, try a quiet corner or use a small white-noise machine. A calmer environment helps children feel ready to listen.
2. Offer cozy seating options
Not every child wants to sit cross-legged on the floor. Some kids prefer a bean bag, a chair with armrests, or even lying on their tummy with a pillow. If possible, let kids choose where and how they want to sit. When bodies are comfortable, minds can focus on the story.
3. Bring in calming props
A sensory-friendly storytime can include soft items kids can hold, like a stuffed animal, a stress ball, or a small blanket. These objects give children something safe to fidget with if their bodies need to move while they listen.
4. Use gentle voices and pacing
Instead of reading quickly, slow down. Use a softer tone, and let there be pauses between pages. Some children need extra processing time, so those little breaks give them space to picture what’s happening. You don’t need to fill every second with sound — quiet moments are golden.
5. Add movement breaks
For kids who struggle to sit still, build in tiny “wiggle breaks.” After a page or two, invite them to stretch their arms, shake their hands, or flap their “bat wings” like in The Sparkle Bat. These breaks keep storytime from turning into a battle against restlessness.
6. Prepare with a schedule or preview
Many neurodivergent children like to know what’s coming. Before you begin, you can say, “First we’ll read the story, then we’ll do a short activity, then we’ll have a snack.” You could also show them the book and say, “This story has 10 pages — when we finish, we’ll do a drawing.” Predictability makes the experience less stressful.
7. Keep activities flexible
After the story, offer options. Some kids may love drawing their favorite character, while others may want to simply talk about it. Flexibility helps every child feel successful, instead of pressured.
Why it matters
When storytime is sensory-friendly, children aren’t distracted by discomfort. They’re able to hear the words, see the pictures, and feel the emotions of the story. This kind of safe and thoughtful environment shows kids that reading can be joyful — not overwhelming.
And when children experience storytime as something positive, they’re more likely to carry that love of stories with them everywhere they go.
Bottom Line
Every child is different. What feels soothing for one might not work for another, and that’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s creating a space where kids can feel calm, seen, and free to be themselves.
So next time you sit down with a book from The Sparkle Series, take a moment to set the stage. With a few small adjustments, storytime can truly sparkle for every child, neurodivergent or not.
You Can Try: At your next storytime, offer children a choice of a “reading buddy” (a small stuffed animal or fidget). Watch how this small act can help them settle into the story with more comfort and joy.