6 Genius ways to Make Kids Fall in Love with Reading

Little ones love being read to, but when it comes to independent reading as they grow older, not all children are inclined to pick up a book. With so many distractions nowadays from YouTube to online games, getting youngsters to have a digital detox and read a book can prove challenging. 

However, there are plenty of ways you can help strike up a reading habit so to help, here’s 6 genius ways to make kids fall in love with reading.

1. Take them to the local library and let them explore

Sometimes, children struggle to get into reading because they’re not sure what they’d enjoy. When they’re used to educational books, exploring different genres and authors isn’t always easy. 

So, to give them the choice they need, take a trip to the local library and explore together. Show them different genres and let them read the blurb until they come across a plot they’re drawn to. When they’re old enough, be sure to get your child their own library card so they can take ownership over their reading. 

2. Set time aside to read too 

It’s no secret that kids learn from adults. Your habits, hobbies and interests will no doubt shape theirs so why not take up reading too if you don’t already. When they see you enjoying a good book, they’ll be more inclined to want to explore reading themselves. 

You could have a set hour or so on a Sunday, for example, where you and the family as a whole switch off from phones and tablets and each read a book. This will get your children into the habit of seeing reading as an enjoyable family activity.

3. Read the books and then watch the film 

In this day and age, there’s no shortage of blockbuster hits based on children’s books! From Harry Potter and The Witches through to older classics such as The Wizard of Oz and The Secret Garden. 

By encouraging children to read the book first with the promise of a movie night, they’ll be more motivated. Either read the book together aloud or let older children read independently at their own pace. You could make movie night something to really look forward to with popcorn and film themed snacks! 

4. Show an interest in their book and ask questions 

You know the feeling – when you’re reading a great book, you just want to talk about it and tell others about the plot. It’s the same for kids. By showing a keen interest in what they’re reading you’ll not only encourage them to continue but you’ll also be able to check-in and ensure they’re absorbing it as they read independently. 

If it’s a book you’ve read yourself, you can have lively discussions about the characters, plot and whether they’ve ‘got to that bit yet?!’ (without giving any spoilers of course!).

5. Create a reading corner 

This is where you can really let your imagination run wild and bring some of their favourite books to life! Kids will love a dedicated spot where they can curl up in a bean bag and get completely lost in a book.

You could create a mini fort or tent for younger children and decorate it with some of their favourite book characters and illustrations. Think Beatrix Potter, Roald Dahl and Mr Men – there’s plenty you could do with a great theme. 

For older children, some bean bags and cushions or a simple, cosy armchair will provide them with a dedicated reading space. 

By introducing a bookshelf, you can build a reading collection together with their favourite genres and authors. Check out our books by age section where you’ll be able to find plenty to choose from for each stage of your child’s reading ability. 

6. Bring the books to life 

This is particularly great for younger children who become fascinated with animals and characters in books. For example, if they love We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ why not take them on your own bear hunt? Pack a picnic and head to a nearby park or wood. You can get as adventurous as you like and talk through some of the hurdles and actions in the book as you go! 

For older children, why not take them to the actual places their books were set? There’s Alnwick Castle in Northumberland that inspired (and was the set for) Hogwarts in Harry Potter. Or The Shambles in York which bears striking similarities to Diagon Alley! There’s also Reelig Glen near Inverness which was the inspiration for Enid Blyton’s Enchanted Wood and Corfe Castle in Dorset that is widely thought to be the inspiration for Enid Blytin’s Kirrin Island’s ruin. Find more locations in this article. 

If you have any other tips on how you got your little ones to fall in love with reading, we’d love to hear them! Let us know in the comments on social media. For more book inspiration head to our home page where you’ll be able to shop by age and author. Happy reading!