Six easy ways to encourage your child to read

Strong reading skills help children thrive both in the classroom and in life. But what if your child isn’t picking up books willingly? Many parents worry when their child shows limited enthusiasm for reading, yet the good news is that there are tried-and-tested ways to help. Small changes can make a big difference, and you can spark that love of reading sooner than you think.

Here are six practical strategies to encourage a reluctant reader and build the habits that make a real difference:

1. Give Them Ownership

Children are more motivated when they choose their own reading material. Encourage your child to explore a wide range of: novels, comics, magazines, or even short story collections. When they feel ownership, they are far more likely to engage.

2. Help Them Create Their Own Reading Routine

Instead of fixing a strict “reading time” every day, let your child choose when they’d like to read. What matters most is consistency, not the clock. When the routine is their choice, whether it’s a cosy twenty minutes before bed or a quiet moment after play, they’re far more likely to look forward to it. Forcing a set slot can make reading feel like a chore, but choosing their own time helps it become something they genuinely enjoy.

3. Read Together and Discuss

Shared reading is powerful. Take turns reading aloud and talk about the characters, themes, or “what might happen next.” These conversations not only make reading enjoyable but also develop comprehension skills essential for the 11+.

4. Link Books to Their Interests

If your child loves sports, nature, or mysteries, choose books in those areas, to begin with. And if handing them a Ronaldo or Virat Kohli book is what finally gets them reading, celebrate it! A book is a book, even if it comes with goal celebrations or cricket stats. Once they experience the thrill of a story that speaks to their passions, they’ll be more open to exploring other genres.

5. Make Reading Visible and Social

Children who see parents and siblings reading are more likely to follow suit. Family reading time, visits to the library, or even a small “home book club” can make reading a normal, shared activity.

6. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Achievement

Praise your child for trying new books, finishing a chapter, or even asking thoughtful questions about a text. Encouragement builds confidence, and confident readers are far more likely to enjoy and persevere with challenging texts.

Helping a reluctant reader doesn’t happen overnight. It’s about building steady habits and positive associations. With patience, consistency, and the right approach, your child can grow from avoiding books to enjoying them, while developing strong reading and comprehension skills for lifelong learning.