Raising a child who enjoys reading is one of the greatest gifts one can offer as a parent. Reading not only helps kids develop their language skills but also expands their imagination, sharpens their focus, and fosters emotional intelligence. But turning a child into a book lover requires some intentional effort. Here are 4 effective strategies to cultivate the habit of reading in your child.
Create a cosy reading nook at home
Children are drawn to spaces that feel magical and inviting. Dedicate a small corner of the home as a reading nook. Fill it with soft cushions, blankets, fairy lights, and shelves packed with colourful books suited to their age. Let this space become their hideaway where they can escape into stories.
Rotate the books regularly to keep the collection fresh and try to build the habit of the child to even just sit in the corner for at least 30 minutes. It might lead to a spark of energy to read.
Make reading an interactive adventure
Reading doesn’t at all have to be a quiet, solitary activity. Bring stories to life by acting out characters, using funny voices, or asking the child to predict what might happen next in the plot. Parents can even set up mini scavenger hunts related to story elements or create a craft inspired by the book you just read together.
Be a reading role model
Children mimic what they see, so let them catch you enjoying a good book. Dedicate some family time where everyone reads their own material—whether it’s novels, magazines, or even recipes. Seeing their parents and siblings immersed in reading creates a culture of books in the household.
Share your excitement about what you’re reading. “I can’t wait to see how this story ends!”
Let them choose their own books
Give your child the freedom to pick books that interest them, even if they seem unconventional. Whether it’s comics, graphic novels, or books on dinosaurs or fairy tales, respecting their preferences empowers them and makes reading feel like a personal choice rather than a chore.
Take regular trips to libraries or bookstores and allow your child to explore.
