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 a lack of enthusiasm for reading, and 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 time slot can make reading feel like a chore, but allowing them to choose their own time helps it become something they genuinely enjoy.

3. Read Together and Discuss

To begin with, make an effort to read the books your child is reading. This may feel like a big ask to busy parents, but it is one approach that truly works, especially if your child is an extremely reluctant reader. Casually weaving in discussions about the plot or characters during mealtimes can spark their curiosity and make stories feel alive. A simple “What do you think might happen next?” chat while you’re out for a weekend walk can further deepen their engagement and show that reading matters beyond the page. These shared conversations not only make reading enjoyable but also quietly strengthen comprehension skills.

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. Keep experimenting with new genres till they find something they like. As J K Rowling has rightly said, “If you don’t like to read, you haven’t found the right book.”

5. Make Reading Visible and Social

Children who see parents and siblings reading are more likely to follow suit. When they notice you choosing a book as a pleasurable way to unwind, they begin to associate reading with enjoyment. Family reading time and regular visits to the library can make reading a normal, shared activity. Over time, this quiet modelling sends a powerful message: reading is not just for school, but a rewarding habit to carry for life.

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.