Reading and comprehension are essential in primary education as they develop crucial cognitive and linguistic skills, promote critical thinking and creativity, and establish the foundation for continuous learning. Moreover, they encourage curiosity and empathy, preparing students for future academic and social challenges. Reading rooms play a vital role in this process, serving as dynamic and innovative pedagogical spaces that foster reading, writing, and research. They support the curriculum and promote student protagonism, inclusion, and creativity across different age groups.

This research investigated the use of playful characters to stimulate reading and environmental awareness, conducted in a reading room with students from the first to the fifth grade of primary education in a state school in São Paulo, Brazil. The methodology included using specific pedagogical books for each grade, playful materials such as costumes, wigs, and theatrical accessories, music, and small plays. In addition, topics related to environmental care were addressed. The results showed that these activities increased student motivation, improved text comprehension, and enhanced literacy performance, while also fostering greater environmental awareness among the students.

Keywords: Reading room, literacy, Environmental Education, playful activity, Primary Education.