From Picture Books to Paperbacks: Making Time for Reading as a Mom

Making time for reading as a mom might feel impossible—but even in the chaos of motherhood, your stories still matter.

Making Time for Reading as a Mom (Even When Life Is Wild)

Before I had kids, I could fly through fantasy books in a weekend. Now? I’m lucky if I can finish a chapter before someone needs a snack. But I’ve learned something important: making time for reading as a mom doesn’t have to mean carving out hours of silence. It just takes intention, creativity, and the belief that your joy still matters.

From Fantasy Binge Reads to Board Books

Before I had kids, I could devour an 800-page fantasy novel in a weekend. I lived for epic world-building, badass warrior queens, and magical plot twists that made me stay up way too late.

It Starts With Bedtime Stories

We all start back at the beginning—with picture books. Sweet, simple, and surprisingly powerful. I remember searching for the perfect first birthday book for my daughter. I wanted something meaningful, something she’d carry in her heart as she grew.

And reading to her every night? It reminded me of how deeply I loved books. Those short, silly rhymes and gentle illustrations reignited something in me. They reminded me that stories still mattered—even if I wasn’t the one being read to.

Squeezing in Pages Between Snack Time and School Pickups

I used to believe I needed hours of uninterrupted silence to truly enjoy a book. (Spoiler: that doesn’t exist in mom life.) So instead, I changed how I read.

Some days, it’s five pages. Other days, I surprise myself and read a whole chapter. But every page is a little gift to myself—a reminder that I’m still a reader.

Why Reading Isn’t Just a Hobby—It’s Self-Care

Reading helps me feel like me again. Not just “Mom” or “Can I have a snack?” lady. But the girl who once got completely lost in books.

Fantasy novels especially help me escape. When the day’s been long and loud, I crack open something magical—like A Court of Mist and Fury or The Stardust Thief—and I let my mind wander far, far away.

Moms need an outlet that doesn’t involve chores or obligations. Reading can be that space to breathe.

Let Go of the Guilt—Seriously

At first, I felt guilty spending time reading while dishes piled up. But eventually, I realized something: my kids benefit when I care for myself, too.

Now, I’ll say, “I’m going to read for a little while,” and guess what? They’re learning that mom’s needs matter. They see books as part of life, not just something for school. That’s powerful.

Build Bookish Traditions with Your Kids

Books aren’t just personal—they’re part of our family traditions now. Every year, I pick out a birthday book for each of my kids. Sometimes it’s a laugh-out-loud adventure. Other times, it’s a story about growing up, friendship, or emotions.

It’s become a sweet ritual. They love seeing what story they’ll get, and I love building their personal library with intention.

You’re Still a Reader (Even If It’s One Page at a Time)

Moms, listen. You don’t need to read 100 books a year to be a reader. You don’t need to finish the latest fantasy bestseller the moment it drops.

Because making time for reading as a mom isn’t about perfection. It’s about remembering that you matter. Your joy matters. And the magic inside those pages? It’s waiting—just for you.

Busy Mom’s Guide to Reading: How to Make Time for Yourself Again

You don’t need to wait for the perfect moment. Reading—even just a few pages—can reconnect you with who you are beyond motherhood. So grab that paperback, pour some tea, and remember: making time for reading as a mom isn’t selfish. It’s essential. Your next magical escape is waiting.