Six Common “Reading Rules” Parents Should Break

Every parent hopes their child will grow up to love books, to get lost in stories, find comfort in pages, and see reading as a lifelong friend. But in our eagerness to help, we sometimes do the very things that put children off reading altogether. Encouraging a love of books isn’t about rules or routines; it’s about freedom, curiosity, and the joy of discovery.

Here are six common pitfalls to avoid if you truly want your child to enjoy reading.

1. Don’t control every choice.
Children are far more likely to read with enjoyment when they feel a sense of ownership. Let them choose their own books, even if they seem “too easy,” “too silly,” or part of an endless comic series. What matters most is that they’re reading by choice, not compulsion.

2. Don’t insist on a fixed reading time.
Telling a child to “read for half an hour every day” can make reading feel like a chore, not a pleasure. Instead, make books a natural part of your home. Keep them on the coffee table, by the bed, or even in the car. Let reading slip into their day organically.

3. Don’t dismiss their interests.
If your child is passionate about football, animals, or superheroes, start there. Reading about what they love builds confidence and curiosity. From there, you can gently introduce related authors or genres later.

4. Don’t compare them with others.
Every child’s reading journey is unique. Comparing your child to a sibling or friend who “reads more” only adds pressure and discouragement. Celebrate their progress, however small.

5. Don’t turn every book into a lesson.
Children quickly lose interest if reading always feels educational. It’s fine if some books are just for fun. Giggles and imagination count just as much as vocabulary and comprehension!

6. Don’t rush to correct or quiz them.
If they mispronounce a word or skip a page, resist the urge to intervene immediately. Interruptions break their flow and confidence. Let them enjoy the story first. You can revisit tricky words later if needed.

Once your child begins to read regularly, that’s when you can nudge them towards new authors or slightly more challenging books. But never insist. The moment reading feels like an obligation, the joy drains away. The real magic happens when books become their choice, their escape, and ultimately, their lifelong habit.

At Word Wizards, we believe reading should never be forced, it should be discovered. Give your child the freedom to choose, and watch their imagination take flight.