How do I get my child to love reading?

If there’s one habit your child needs to develop early in life, it’s reading. It enhances language abilities, sparks creativity, and provides a strong base for success in all areas of learning. Yet, many parents struggle to get their children genuinely interested in books. If you’re wondering how to get your child to love reading, the good news is that there are practical and enjoyable steps you can take, starting today. In this article, we explore why reading matters and how you can help your child develop a lifelong love for it.

Why Does It Matter If Your Child Enjoys Reading?

Children who love to read are bound to read more often, which makes it easier for them to learn not just at school, but in everyday life. Enjoying reading gives them a head start in vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension. It helps them understand stories, follow instructions, and express themselves clearly.

More than just academic advantages, reading also develops emotional intelligence. Books allow children to understand how characters think or feel, helping them learn how to identify and empathise with others. Children develop their creativity and become independent thinkers, as what they read encourages them to picture the text in their minds and to learn more about what they read.

When children are fond of reading, they are more likely to do better at school. They develop stronger focus, better memory, and improved critical thinking skills — all of which support their overall development. In short, cultivating a love for reading in your child opens the door to lifelong learning and discovery.

What You Can Do

Start at an Early Age

You can build a love for reading in your child by reading to them while they’re in the womb. Even in utero, they gain from listening to your voice, and you also strengthen the bond between you with every fairy tale or nursery rhyme. As your little one grows, reading becomes a way to build trust between you. When your child begins to read on their own, reading becomes dear to them because it reminds them of fun times at home rather than just something they have to attend to for school.

If your child is already in primary school, don’t worry — it’s not too late. Start today by picking stories that match their age and interests. The key is to create positive reading experiences, no matter when you begin.

Let Your Child See You Reading

Children often imitate what they see. If your child sees you reading regularly — whether it’s a novel, newspaper, or recipe book — they will understand that reading is a normal, valued part of life. This silent message is powerful. It teaches your child the importance of reading by example, rather than by admonition. 

Set aside screen-free time at home where everyone reads. You can call it “reading time” or just quietly read while your child is nearby. By modelling the behaviour, you reinforce reading as a natural and enjoyable habit.

Allow Your Child to Pick and Keep Their Own Books

Ownership makes reading personal. Give your child free rein for choosing their reading material, whether that’s a book from the library or a graphic novel from your favourite book shop. Reading books of their own choosing makes them want to read and to become more involved in the story. 

Don’t worry if your child chooses something you think is too easy or too silly. The point is to help them become confident, avid readers. Once they discover the pleasure of reading, they will naturally seek out more challenging material over time.

You can also give books as gifts or rewards. Having their own little bookshelf can give them a sense of pride and ownership over their reading journey.

Read the Books Your Child Reads

Reading the same books as your child creates a shared experience you can enjoy together. You can talk about the characters, the plot, and what might happen next. This connection turns reading into a social activity and encourages your child to think more deeply about what they’re reading.

You don’t need to read every page. Even a quick skim can help you ask meaningful questions and join their reading world. Being involved shows your child that their interests matter to you.

Read Together

One of the best ways to get your child to love reading is to read together with them, usually before bed or during homework time. It helps with pronunciation, fluency, and comprehension, but most importantly, it makes reading enjoyable.

Take turns reading pages or acting out different characters in the story. Bringing the story to life with voices and expressions makes reading more exciting and enjoyable. Even older children benefit from being read to, especially if the book is slightly above their reading level.

Reading together also gives you a chance to pause and explain difficult words or ideas. The goal isn’t just to finish the story, it’s to connect with it and enjoy the journey as you read.

Read Quality Books

While any reading is better than none at all, quality books provide richer language, deeper themes, and better storytelling. Look for award-winning children’s books or ask your local librarian for recommendations.

Books with well-developed characters and meaningful plots help children develop empathy and critical thinking. They help young readers learn new words and think about what they have read. 

Mix in books that challenge your child a little, alongside easier reads. The balance keeps them motivated while helping them grow.

Keep Books at Home

When children grow up in a house full of books and other reading materials, they’re bound to make reading a habit. Make books easily accessible in different parts of the house — not just their bedroom. A small bookshelf in the living room or a basket of books near the dining table makes reading part of daily life.

You don’t need a large collection. When books are a regular part of the environment, reaching for one feels natural and effortless. The key is visibility and access. When books are a regular part of the environment, reaching for one feels like a natural habit.

Bring Books When You Travel

Books are perfect travel companions. Whether you’re going on a holiday, taking the MRT, or waiting at a restaurant, having a book handy turns idle time into reading time.

Pack a few favourites along with something new. If your child enjoys audiobooks, they’re a great alternative during long journeys. The idea is to show that books can go anywhere — they’re not limited to school or bedtime.

Vary Your Child’s Reading Material

Books come in many forms, and variety keeps reading fresh. Encourage your child to explore different genres such as adventure, fantasy, mystery, humour, or non-fiction topics like animals and space. Let them read poems, magazines, graphic novels, or even comic books, all of which can still be considered reading. 

Not every child loves traditional storybooks, and that’s perfectly fine. Some may prefer facts, while others enjoy illustrations. Encourage your child to explore and pursue what sparks their curiosity.

Different types of reading also build different skills. Informational texts improve comprehension and vocabulary, while fiction boosts imagination and empathy.

Set a Regular Reading Time

Routine makes habits stick. Just 15 minutes a day, at the same time each day, is a great place to start. Bedtime is a popular choice, but after school or during breakfast can work too. Sticking to a regular reading routine is more important than how long each session lasts.

You can also schedule longer reading sessions on weekends or “family reading nights”. The predictability helps children look forward to reading as part of their day.

If your schedule is busy, try pairing reading with another activity — like listening to audiobooks during car rides or while doing puzzles.

Provide a Comfortable Reading Environment

Where your child reads can affect how much they enjoy it. Create a quiet, cosy space with good lighting and few distractions. A comfy chair, a reading nook with cushions, or even a tent with fairy lights can make reading feel special.

Let your child help design their reading area. Adding their favourite blanket or soft toy can make it more inviting. Make it a place they want to return to — where reading is associated with comfort and calm.

Encourage Your Child To Talk About What They Read

Talking about books helps deepen understanding and makes reading more interactive. Ask your child what they liked about the story, who their favourite character was, or what they think might happen next.

Open-ended questions encourage thinking and discussion. For example, try asking questions such as, “What do you think motivated the character’s actions?” or “How would you respond if you were in that situation?”. These conversations help your child engage more deeply with the book and develop their communication skills.

Be curious and show genuine interest. If your child knows you’re interested in what they read, they’ll be more excited to share.

Conclusion

Helping your child fall in love with reading is a gift that will benefit them for life. It doesn’t require expensive tools or expert skills — just time, encouragement, and a little creativity. By starting early, being involved, and making reading a joyful part of daily life, you’re setting the stage for your child to become an enthusiastic, confident reader.

At LCentral, we believe in every child’s potential to love reading. With the right support at home and in the classroom, reading can become more than just a skill — it can become a lifelong passion.