Hello, I’m Geraldine Grandidier and As a passionate reader, I know firsthand the incredible benefits that reading brings. Giving the gift of reading has become my life’s mission. That’s why I founded my children’s bookcase company, Tidy Books—to create a world where books are a natural and joyful part of every child’s life. Tidy Books proudly partners with Coram Beanstalk, I’m also thrilled to share that I’ve joined Coram Beanstalk as a volunteer, working with children and witnessing the transformative power of reading up close.
“📚✨ Here’s my approach in 5 key tips as a Coram Beanstalks Volunteer Mentor to help children feel at ease and spark their excitement for reading! 🌟📖” 🌱📚
Coram Beanstalk works tirelessly with teachers, parents and carers to stop our children falling behind. Coram Beanstalk’s volunteers provide one-to-one reading support in weekly 30-minute sessions with children most in need. For 50 years Coram Beanstalk has supported over 250,000 children to build their reading ability and confidence.
5 Minutes a Day = Big Wins:
Trust me—just committing to 5 minutes of reading a day is undaunting and super easy! I always share that I don’t like exercising, so I commit to 5 minutes a day, and it works! Five minutes might feel small (and it’s meant to feel small), but it adds up quickly. It’s definitely better than nothing! You’ll be amazed at how much you can get through.
And who knows? You might even find yourself enjoying it so much that you end up reading for longer. All that, just because you committed to 5 minutes! I use this trick for everything I’m not keen on, and before you know it, you’re all in!
We’re Both Learning Together:
I join you in reading; I’m not teaching anything—I’m just here for the journey with you! When we read together, we’re a team. You don’t need to worry about one of us knowing more than the other—if we don’t know something, that’s totally fine! It puts us both at ease and makes the whole thing way more fun.
It’s Totally Okay Not to Know:
If there’s a word I or you don’t know, we’ll look it up together. Grab the dictionary, and let’s make it an adventure! We’re all human, not robots. Learning is all about curiosity. It’s not a performance—just a fun discovery!
Exploring New Worlds Together:
Reading opens up so many new worlds, and we get to discover them side by side. As a reading volunteer, I’ve learned about colours, animals, and so many cool things! The world is huge, and we get to explore it together. Doesn’t get better than that!
Poems Are Fun (and Short!):
Poems are like little nuggets of magic. They’re quick, fun, and spark big thoughts! After reading a poem, we can chat about it. “What do you think? How does it make you feel?” It’s a great way to start a conversation and learn more about each other!
One more thing—
“Every time we read together, I’m inspired by your wisdom and curiosity. It’s amazing how much you teach me—it’s a true privilege to share this journey with you!”
Tidy Books proudly partners with Coram Beanstalk, a charity dedicated to helping children discover the magic of reading. With every purchase from the Tidy Books website, a percentage goes directly to support their vital work.
To become a Coram Beanstalk reading volunteer apply here.
Create your own reading oasis – making a cosy reading corner with a Tidy books bookcase Click here to see our range of products.
