Like many busy families, we are on the go a lot! I love to take advantage of short pockets of time for inspiring creativity and curiosity. Even just a few minutes of creative time each day can make a big impact and foster family connections. We keep these books near the kitchen table to enjoy a quick passage from them after breakfast or dinner.
Year of Wonder by Clemency Burton-Hill
Most people are familiar with the benefits of classical music, but they may not realize how easy it is to incorporate it into their daily lives. We are really enjoying this gem of a book along with the playlists on Spotify. It’s quickly become part of our family’s everyday routine. The next time you need a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, consider reading a page from Year of Wonder and listening to the accompanying classical music as a way to relax and rejuvenate. A unique celebration of classical music that showcases one inspirational piece each day of the year, written by an award-winning violinist and BBC Radio personality. Ages 14 and up.
“Year of Wonder is an absolute treat—the most enlightening way to be guided through the year.” — Eddie Redmayne
A Poem for Every Day of the Year by Allie Esiri
Reading a quick poem each day only takes a few minutes and works well for busy family schedules. We often take turns reading aloud from A Poem for Every Day of the Year and have enjoyed the wide selection of poems featured in the book. I also appreciate how several of the poems are a reflection of the seasons or specific times of the year. Ages 9 and up.
How to Draw Almost Every Day by Kamo
How to Draw Almost Every Day is an adorable guide to creating quick illustrations of everyday objects. With step-by-step instructions, you’ll be drawing all sorts of fun illustrations all year long. I love that only paper and a pen are needed. It even features several ideas for creative crafts and handmade gifts. This book is perfect for inspiring creativity – even when you are short on time! Ages 5 and up.
Bonus: Creativity Journal for Kids
My daughter Clara and I collaborated on this journal! This is a great book for families looking for some screen-free activities to keep the kids engaged and learning. The Creativity Journal for Kids is packed with prompts and activities that inspire kids to use their imaginations, take risks, and express themselves however they want. They’ll move their bodies, use all of their senses, and explore the world around them in fun, new ways. They don’t need to be perfect―just unapologetically themselves! Designed for ages 8-12.
More Family Books to Enjoy Together:
- 5 Kids Activity Books Every Parent Should Own – These kids activities books are some of the very best to inspire lots of playtime fun! The titles listed below have a proven track record with my family, as they are some of the books we most often refer to for creative inspiration again and again. My kids love them, and so do I!
- Snow Treasure Book and Crafts for Ages 8 and Up – Our family book club pick was a book that has been around for quite some time. If you are looking for a classic read during the cold Winter months, Snow Treasure by Marie McSwigan is based on an actual event in Norway during World War II.
- Read the Book Watch the Movie on Netflix – The Winter months can mean lots of time spent indoors when kids are home from school due to inclement weather. Did you know that many of your kids’ favorite books are available to watch instantly on Netflix? This is a great excuse to spend the day cuddling up reading a great book, then watching the movie together in the evening for a book-themed family movie night!
