Getting kids into reading can feel like a real challenge. With all the bright, noisy screens and endless games, books sometimes seem like the “boring” option. But hey, we know reading is so much more—it’s about imagination, discovery, and a world where kids can be anyone or go anywhere! If you’re ready to turn the page and help your kids fall in love with books, here’s a laid-back guide to make reading their new favorite thing.
Make Books Part of the Everyday World
Kids naturally follow routines and habits, so why not make reading just another part of their daily life? Instead of making reading a “task” or a “special activity,” keep books everywhere—in the car, by their bed, on the coffee table. They’ll get used to seeing books as a regular part of life, not just something they’re forced to do.
- A Book in Every Corner: Sprinkle books around the house in places they often hang out. A small bookshelf in their bedroom, a few books on the couch, or even a book bin in the kitchen. They’re more likely to pick one up if it’s right there!
- Create a “Reading Nook”: Make a cozy corner with pillows, blankets, and maybe a little tent. A special spot just for reading can make the experience feel more magical. Kids love having their own “secret” space, and it’s an easy way to make reading time extra inviting.
Start with Their Interests
Kids are way more likely to read if the books are about stuff they already love. If your kid’s into dinosaurs, get them a pile of dino books. If they’re obsessed with fairytales or superheroes, find books in those themes.
- Follow Their Passions: If your kid’s a big animal lover, get books about wild adventures with animals as the stars. Love cars and trucks? Get some stories with epic car chases or colorful pictures of construction vehicles. Reading should feel like a journey into things they already find cool.
- Make It Personal: Sometimes, adding a little personal twist helps. Find a book with a main character who has the same name as your child, or one set in a familiar place. Seeing themselves or their world reflected in stories can make books feel closer to them.
Embrace Picture Books and Comics
Reading doesn’t have to mean heavy words and long sentences. Kids can start loving books by just flipping through the pages and looking at colorful pictures. Comics, picture books, and even simple wordless books can be just as engaging as traditional storybooks.
- Comics Are Books Too! Comics and graphic novels aren’t just for adults; there are tons for kids, too. The colorful pictures and action-packed stories can be great for kids who struggle with words but love visuals. Plus, they’re fun for adults to read along, too.
- Encourage “Reading” Without Words: Wordless picture books allow kids to create their own stories based on the images. They’ll practice telling stories, which is an essential part of learning language and enjoying books.
Read With Them, Not To Them
When you read with your kids, it turns into a shared adventure. They don’t just sit there and listen to you; they’re a part of the story. Let them choose their favorite books, act out scenes together, or ask them what they think will happen next. Reading together builds connection and makes them feel more invested.
- Ask Questions: As you read, pause and ask little questions, like, “What do you think this character should do?” or “Why is he feeling sad?” This makes kids feel like part of the story and helps them engage with the emotions and lessons inside.
- Take Turns Reading: Even if your child is still learning to read, let them try out the words they know. Maybe they read the title, the first line, or even just simple words. Kids get a big kick out of reading along, and it builds their confidence.
Add a Bit of Fun
Reading doesn’t have to be a quiet, serious activity. In fact, making reading a little silly can help kids see it as a fun part of their day. Try out different voices, let them jump in with sound effects, or even act out parts of the story.
- Silly Voices and Sound Effects: Use funny voices for different characters, try out animal sounds, or add dramatic “boom” and “whoosh” sound effects. Kids love it when reading becomes lively and fun—it turns storytime into a mini performance.
- Make a Book Club Just for Them: Gather some of their friends or siblings and have a little “book club” day. They can each bring a book, share their favorite parts, and even make little crafts inspired by the story. The social part of reading with others can make it even more enjoyable.
Celebrate Every Little Reading Win
Kids love feeling like they’ve accomplished something, so celebrate every little reading milestone. Finished a book? Read a tricky word? Made it through a whole story by themselves? These are all great reasons to cheer them on.
- Reading Charts or Stickers: For every book they finish, let them put a sticker on a chart or add a star. It’s a simple way to help them keep track of their progress and feel a sense of pride in what they’re doing.
- Set Up a “Reading Night”: Make a night dedicated just to reading. Get snacks, pick out books, and turn off the screens. By dedicating time to reading as a “special event,” kids will start associating books with family fun and quality time.
Be a Role Model
Kids mimic what they see, so if they see you reading and enjoying books, they’re more likely to join in. Set a little time aside each day for your own reading, even if it’s just a few minutes. Show them that reading is a lifelong joy, not just something they have to do for school.
- Read Your Own Book: Let them see you getting absorbed in a book now and then. Kids pick up on our behaviors, so seeing you lost in a story shows them that reading can be relaxing and enjoyable.
- Family Reading Time: Have everyone in the family pick a book and read together. You don’t all need to be reading the same thing; it’s about creating a moment where everyone’s enjoying a story in their own way.
In Summary
Encouraging your kids to love reading doesn’t have to be a struggle. When you make reading a natural, fun, and shared experience, they’ll see it as something they want to do, not just another task. By filling their world with books, letting them lead the way, and sharing in the journey, you’re building a lifelong love of reading.
So give it a go. Bring books into the cozy corners of your home, act out silly characters together, and celebrate every little win along the way. And remember, the goal isn’t perfection; it’s just to enjoy the ride and help your kids discover the magic hidden between the pages.