Halloween is such a thrilling time of year for children — full of imagination, creativity, and just the right amount of spooky fun! Between the costumes, pumpkin carving, and trick-or-treating, it’s also the perfect chance to add a sprinkle of magic to your child’s reading routine. By weaving Halloween themes into storytime, you can make reading even more exciting while helping to build key literacy skills.

From spooky storytimes to themed reading corners, there are loads of fun ways to keep children engaged with books this October. Here are some simple ideas to help your family enjoy Halloween through reading!

Why Themed Reading Works So Well

Children love it when books connect to what’s happening around them — and Halloween is no exception. When stories reflect the excitement of the season, reading feels less like learning and more like play. Themed reading helps children:

  • Stay engaged: Linking books to Halloween makes reading hands-on and fun.
  • Learn new words: Halloween stories are packed with wonderful vocabulary — from “pumpkin” and “potion” to “mystery” and “cauldron.” Learn more about how themed reading supports literacy.
  • Be creative: Spooky tales and fantasy adventures spark imagination and storytelling.
  • Explore feelings: Light-hearted ghost stories help children think about bravery, excitement, and curiosity in safe, fun ways.

Halloween Reading Activities to Try at Home

1. Host a Spooky Storytime

Turn your evening reading session into a mini Halloween event! You could:

  • Dress up as book characters: Let your child pick a costume inspired by their favourite story.
  • Read by torchlight: Dim the lights and use a flashlight for a spooky (but cozy) vibe.
  • Add sound effects: Play some gentle background sounds — like rustling leaves or a bubbling cauldron — for atmosphere.

2. Create a Halloween Reading Nook

Transform a quiet corner into a magical Halloween reading space. Try decorating with:

  • Paper bats, pumpkins, and cobwebs made from string or tissue paper.
  • Orange and purple fairy lights for a cozy glow.
  • Soft blankets and cushions for snuggling up with a book.
  • A basket of Halloween-themed stories within easy reach.

3. Try a Halloween Reading Challenge

Encourage your child to read more throughout October with a simple challenge:

  • Make a spooky reading bingo card (e.g. “Read a book about a ghost” or “Find a story with a witch”).
  • Offer fun rewards such as stickers, bookmarks, or small Halloween treats.
  • Keep a “spooky story journal” where your child can draw or write about their favourite parts.

Choosing the Right Halloween Reads

Halloween is the perfect time to enjoy stories about friendly ghosts, magical creatures, and exciting adventures. When choosing books, look for stories that match your child’s reading level and comfort zone. You might like to:

  • Pick light-hearted spooky books that won’t be too scary for younger readers. Check out our book bands to find the right level for your child.
  • Explore adventure and mystery books that spark curiosity.
  • Choose stories that highlight bravery, teamwork, and problem-solving.

For younger children, stories featuring friendly ghosts, talking pumpkins, or magical spells are ideal for keeping things fun rather than frightening.

How Parents Can Help

Children love reading most when it’s shared. Here are some ways to get involved this Halloween:

  • Read together: Enjoy a Halloween book as a family to make it feel like a special event.
  • Ask questions: Encourage discussion with prompts like “What do you think will happen next?” or “Which character would you like to meet?”
  • Encourage storytelling: Let your child invent their own spooky tale and share it with the family.

How Reading Chest Can Help This Halloween

Having access to a wide variety of books makes seasonal reading so much easier. Reading Chest offers a carefully chosen range of books for every level, delivered straight to your door. Our book band system ensures each child gets books perfectly matched to their ability — helping them grow in confidence while having fun.

Curious about how it all works? Find out how Reading Chest delivers books to your home and helps families enjoy new stories all year round.

Make Reading Magical This Halloween

Halloween is a wonderful opportunity to make reading feel even more exciting. Whether it’s through a themed reading nook, a spooky storytime, or a fun reading challenge, this season is all about inspiring a love of books.

Let’s celebrate Halloween by exploring thrilling stories, using our imaginations, and enjoying time together with books! Looking for more guidance on choosing books? Take a look at our book selection guide.

Join the Halloween Fun!

We’d love to see how your family is celebrating Halloween with books! Share your spooky reading corners, costumes, or favourite stories with us on Twitter/X, Facebook, and Instagram. Let’s keep the Halloween reading magic alive! 💛