Let children choose what they read, build a short daily routine, read aloud together even after they can read alone, and start reluctant readers with plot-driven stories like mysteries and adventures.
Let them choose
Comics, graphic novels, joke books, non-fiction about football or space. It all counts. Choice builds ownership, and children who enjoy reading will move on to harder books naturally.
Make it a routine
- 10–20 minutes a day is enough to start
- Same time each day, before bed works well
- Books visible and within reach around the house
Read aloud: at every age
Reading aloud to children, even after they read independently, builds vocabulary, shows expression and makes reading feel shared rather than a chore.
For reluctant readers: plot first
Plot pulls harder than prose. Mysteries, adventures and series where each book ends on a question keep children turning pages. This is exactly why our Sherlock Holmes course uses detective stories to win over reluctant readers.
Talk about books, not tests
Ask "What do you think will happen next?" or "Who was your favourite character?", not "What was the main idea of chapter three?" Conversations build enthusiasm; quizzes build avoidance.
Model it
Children copy what they see. A parent reading a book (not just a phone) sends a strong message.
Things that backfire
- Forcing "classics" too early
- Reading as a punishment
- Rewarding pages with screen time
- Constant correction while they read aloud
Activities that help
Try a diary of a character or story dice activity together: both build love of stories alongside reading.
See our storytelling and literature courses: Tales and Telling and History Mystery.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get my child to enjoy reading?
Let them choose books they like, build a short daily routine, read aloud together and talk about stories rather than testing them.
What should reluctant readers read?
Plot-driven books such as mysteries, adventures, graphic novels and series that end each book on a question.
How long should a child read each day?
Around 10 to 20 minutes a day is a good start. Consistency matters more than length.
Do comics count as reading?
Yes. Comics and graphic novels build vocabulary and enjoyment, and often lead to other books.
More parent & student guides
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- Financial literacy for kids: teaching money with pocket money
- A school holiday learning plan for kids, without ruining the break
- How to help your child with homework, without doing it for them
- The best study routine for O Level and IGCSE students
- How to use past papers effectively for IGCSE and O Level
- All parent & student guides →
Written by the Learning Bubble teaching team. If something here does not match your situation, ask us. We would rather give you a straight answer than have you guess.