Becoming a parent changes your world in ways you couldn’t possibly have imagined. From sleep schedules to personal time, everything gets a thorough shake-up. Among the many things that often take a backseat is the cherished hobby of reading. Remember the days when you could get lost in a fantastical world with dragons, wizards, and enchanted forests? If you’re missing those magical journeys, you’re not alone. Here’s how you can dive back into the wonder of fantasy books even with a busy parenting life.
Start with Baby Steps [Rekindling Your Love For Reading After Becoming A parent
While you may long for the days when you could finish an entire fantasy novel in one sitting, remember that it’s okay to start small. You don’t have to delve into a 700-page epic like “The Name of the Wind” by Patrick Rothfuss right away. Start with short stories or novellas in the fantasy genre. You’ll find that even a brief escape into a magical world can be incredibly refreshing.
Utilize Naptime
We all know that naptime is the golden hour for busy parents. Instead of using this time solely for chores, consider taking a few minutes to indulge in a good book. Trust me, the laundry can wait for you to finish one more chapter of that gripping fantasy book you’ve been longing to read.
Audiobooks are Your New Best Friend
Sometimes, holding a book just isn’t feasible. Maybe you’re nursing, or perhaps you’re driving your little ones to school. This is where audiobooks come in. With audiobooks, you can immerse yourself in fantastical worlds, all while keeping your hands free for multi-tasking. Many fantasy books offer excellent audio versions, often read by engaging narrators who bring an extra layer of magic to the tale.
Make it a Family Affair
As your children grow, introduce them to the joy of reading, especially fantasy books, which are known to boost imagination and creativity. Soon enough, your family can have a shared reading time where everyone grabs a book and reads together. You can explore a world of magic and wonder, while also instilling the love of reading in your children.
Join Online Book Clubs
Parenting can sometimes be isolating, especially in the early years. Joining an online book club can not only keep you accountable for your reading goals but also provide you with a community that shares your interests. Plenty of such clubs focus specifically on fantasy books, making them an excellent place to get recommendations tailored to your taste.
Revisit Old Favorites
If you find it difficult to commit to a new book, why not revisit an old fantasy favorite? Sometimes, the comfort of a beloved story can serve as the perfect reintroduction to the reading habit. Characters and places that are already familiar may feel like old friends, making it easier to get back into the reading groove.
In Conclusion
Reading, particularly fantasy books, provides a necessary escape from the rigors of everyday life, offering a world that’s entirely different from the one you navigate as a parent. Even if you can’t dedicate the same amount of time to reading as you could before, the idea is to create a balance that allows you this crucial me-time. Happy reading, and may your days be filled with a little touch of magic!
