Cloakroom libraries, book bags and ‘being with books’: Materiality and affective practices in reading promotion activities for younger children in preschool
How do preschools foster young children's engagement with books? This research project explores how preschools promote younger children's play and interactions with books, as well as the emotions that are encouraged or restricted during these interactions. The study investigates how the physical presence of books and book-filled environments are discussed and valued within preschools.
Fieldwork is conducted in several preschools to observe how children aged 1–3 handle books and to understand the values and perceptions educators associate with socio-material reading practices. The project places particular focus on the spatial and physical aspects of these practices—examining where books are placed within the environment, how children move with books across different spaces, and how educators use physical books in their teaching. Additionally, the project investigates how books are integrated into children’s bodily environments, framing book play as an affective practice. This includes analyzing what emotions and emotional expressions are encouraged, constrained, or expected during book-related interactions.
A significant aspect of the research involves examining younger children's socio-material reading practices through a historical lens, with attention to potential gender coding. This sub-study delves into discursive changes and continuities from the 20th century, analyzing historical child observation records from kindergartens in the 1930s–1940s. It also reviews archival materials, including the journal Förskolan (previously Svenska Fröbelföreningens tidskrift and Barnträdgården), to explore how gendered interactions with books have evolved over time.
Research Area
- Samhällsvetenskap
- Annan samhällsvetenskap
Research environment / Institution
- Övrig forskning
- Institutionen för individ och samhälle
Project leader
Research funding
- Vetenskapsrådet
Project time
2024 - 2027