Every Child Deserves to Discover the Magic of Reading

Photo Credit: Nal’ibali via Facebook

Hospital stays and clinic visits can be stressful, scary, or boring for young children, but thanks to Nal’ibali, dedicated reading corners at these public healthcare spaces offer a comforting escape into exciting stories and turn idle time into rich learning opportunities.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (21 October 2026) – The wonderful thing about a good book is that you can read it just about anywhere – even a hospital room!

Recognising that many young children often have to wait in long queues during trips to the clinic or endure long stays in state paediatric wards while battling illness, Nal’ibali brings the joy and wonder of reading to these very healthcare spaces.

Through its clinic and hospital Reading Corners at local clinics and children’s hospital wards, like Prince Mshiyeni Memorial, St. Aidan’s, and Addington hospitals, young patients, visitors, and families have easy access to engaging storybooks, printed activity sheets, and reading materials in various African home languages.

Sibongiseni Blose, Nal’ibali’s National Programmes Coordinator based in KZN, is the pioneer of these reading corners. Based on personal experience, she knew that a reading corner could be more than just a distraction but could provide a space for children to engage their imaginations, escape into new worlds and find some comfort during their hospital stay.

“As a child, I spent six months in hospital, separated from my family and the life I knew. During that time, caring educators held classes and made reading time a fun and engaging adventure. Their enthusiasm helped me to forget the pain caused by my condition and kept my mind active. This experience not only helped me emotionally but also allowed me to keep up with my studies, and when I was discharged, I was able to move on to the next school grade,” Blose reflects.

Created as safe and informal environments, these reading corners offer a gentle way to introduce storytelling and literacy into places where children and caregivers often spend hours waiting or recovering, turning idle time into rich learning opportunities.

“Through our clinic and hospital Reading Corners, we bring books and storytelling to children in healthcare spaces, turning waiting time into opportunities for imagination, learning and connection,” shares Nal’ibali.

“Our Story Sparkers read aloud to children and engage parents and caregivers, showing how sharing stories can nurture language development, strengthen family bonds and inspire a lifelong love of reading.”

Moreover, engaging with colourful picture books or interactive activities gives young minds a positive distraction, reducing anxiety around medical procedures and ensuring they feel cared for and supported during challenging times.

The initiative forms part of the national reading-for-enjoyment campaign’s bigger picture: to nurture a love for reading by taking stories to children wherever they are – because every child deserves the chance to discover that magic.