1. Let kids pick their own books

One of the best ways to encourage reading is to let children pick books for themselves. Young readers naturally gravitate towards topics they already enjoy. It is a way to show them that their tastes are just as valid as anyone else’s, which is often a comforting thought for someone who’s growing up and learning about themselves. Letting kids choose their own books also helps them discover more about themselves and their tastes, all on their own, you are teaching them independence!

2. Listen to audiobooks

For children who find reading difficult or tiring, audiobooks can be a wonderful alternative. It can ease the difficulties of reading while still making them enjoy stories. Some children simply connect better with listening than reading visually – and that is perfectly okay. Audiobooks can also help build vocabulary, concentration and a love of storytelling.

3. Read aloud together

Reading aloud is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to make books feel special. Hearing stories read by someone they trust can help children relax and fully enjoy the experience. It also creates valuable bonding moments and often encourages children to become more curious about books themselves. Even older children can still enjoy being read to from time to time.

4. Buy them books you loved as a child​

Children are often curious about what their parents, grandparents or teachers enjoyed growing up. Sharing favourite childhood books can become a lovely way to connect across generations. They may not always love the same stories you did – but they might enjoy discovering a little piece of your world and hearing why those books mattered to you.

5. Create a cosy reading corner at home

A comfortable reading space can make books feel much more inviting. Fill it with things kids love, like posters, blankets, maybe some snacks. Having a cosy space especially for reading makes for a comfortable atmosphere and shows that reading is unique and can be a special moment during the day. You can also share that space and create a bonding moment with your child!

6. Set aside regular reading time

Making reading part of a daily or weekly routine can help children understand that books deserve time and attention. Even just 10 or 15 minutes a day can make a difference. It is a special moment meant to be enjoyed and not rushed. It creates a calm atmosphere, away from all the overwhelming stimulation of the outside world and helps little ones relax.

7. Visit the library

Libraries can be magical places for young readers. It can be as much as twice a week, or if they’re not too keen on it, simply once a month. Other than supporting a local institution, it also gives them access to plenty of books you don’t have to buy. Libraries often have a designated space for kids of different ages where there might even be other young readers so they can create connections between them.

8. Join a book club

Reading can feel even more exciting when it becomes a shared experience. Book clubs can be online or offline – an it’s always a good idea to join one to encourage a love of books within a community. Knowing other people their age read helps them understand that no, books are not lame. They can also discover new titles thanks to the club’s and the participants’ recommendations!

9. Ask your child

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Finally, maybe the easiest solution of them all, ask your kid what they want to do! You can share this list with them to rank it and you might discover something new about how they want to read. For a child to enjoy something, whether it be reading or something else, it’s important to communicate to them that they’re the priority. It is their choice and their tastes, so we must accompany them on their journey of discovering who they are!

None of these ideas are magic solutions, and every child develops a relationship with reading differently. But with patience, encouragement and a little creativity, books can become something children genuinely look forward to rather than something they are forced to do. At the end of the day, we simply want them to love books as much as we do!