Call it the pandemic effect, but studies have shown a steady decline in interest in reading amongst today’s Gen Alpha children. Could it be due to the digital distractions that dominate their world? As a parent, you may wonder how to inspire a love for reading in your child—without nagging or pushing. What does it take to foster a true, organic interest in books?
The answer is simple. A consistent and enjoyable approach by parents can help children develop a lifelong love for reading. For today’s busy millennial parents, finding time for books can be a challenge, especially with little ones aged 2–6. However, creating a reading routine early on is one of the best gifts you can give your child.
Why Make Reading a Daily Habit?
Daily reading, even for just a few minutes, offers invaluable benefits for young children. It helps to:
- Build special bonding time with your child, creating warm memories around books.
- Inspire a love for stories and books, turning reading into an enjoyable activity rather than a task.
- Boost language skills and vocabulary, which are essential for early development.
- Support early phonics awareness, helping children understand letter sounds and word formation.
- Create a soothing activity, ideal for winding down before bedtime or naptime.
Additionally, incorporating interactive elements like flaps, textures, and even colouring or activity pages makes the experience even more rewarding!
Building A Reading Routine With Kids
Here are some tips to help you create a fun and sustainable reading habit with your child:
Swap Screen Time for Reading Time
With screens a prominent part of life, why not swap a few minutes of screen time for reading? Start small by replacing one episode of a show with a picture book or short story. Keep it interactive by asking your child to describe pictures or predict what happens next, making reading a fun alternative, not a strict rule.
Quick Tip: Set a ‘reading before screens’ rule to establish an imaginative, screen-free start to the day. “Habit stacking,” as suggested by James Clear in Atomic Habits, is a great way to seamlessly add a small reading session into your day. Discover a must-read book here. I want to Watch
Make Bedtime Stories a Tradition
Bedtime is the perfect time for reading. Choose a calming story and let your child relax as you read together. This nightly routine not only helps your child unwind but also fosters empathy, life skills, and values. Discover fun, values-based stories in an engaging format by Woodpecker Books. Explore cute bedtime books here. Dinosaur Tales
Quick Tip: Let your child choose the bedtime story to keep them excited and involved in the routine.
Read During Commutes
For busy parents, commute time offers the perfect opportunity to squeeze in some reading. Keep a small book in the car or on the bus, and transform the ride into a fun, educational experience with a short rhyme or story. Discover engaging quick-read books here. Phonic Readers , Graded Reader
Quick Tip: Choose quick phonics reads or mini-stories that fit the duration of your commute.
Host Playdates with Books
Reading doesn’t have to be solitary. Organise playdates with Storytime or activity books, so children can enjoy reading in a fun, social setting. When kids see their friends engaging with books, they’re more likely to join in. Find fun activities books here. Manga and Anime , Easy Origami , Learning Treasures.
Quick Tip: Choose books with flaps, textures, colouring, mazes, crosswords, and other activities. Keeping reading interactive helps everyone stay engaged.
Turn Bookstore or Library Visits into Special Events
Make visits to the bookstore or library a treat, not a task. Reward your child with a book of their choice to mark accomplishments or good behaviour. This makes reading feel like a reward, helping to create positive associations.
Quick Tip: Many bookstores host weekend storytelling sessions—check your local store’s events to make it a family outing!
Include Grandparents in Storytime
Grandparents bring a unique magic to Storytime with tales from their generation. Involving family in reading adds richness to the experience and strengthens bonds. Children love hearing stories from the people they cherish. Find heartwarming tales here. Proverb Stories , Stories to Learn from
Quick Tip: If grandparents live far away, virtual Storytime over video calls can keep the connection strong, letting your child enjoy stories from loved ones.
Create a Cosy Reading Nook and Unwind Together
A comfortable reading corner at home can make a big difference. Add pillows, blankets, and shelves for their favourite books. A special space for reading makes it a cozy, inviting activity.
Quick Tip: Involve your child in setting up the nook. Let them choose the decorations or a stuffed animal ‘reading buddy’ to make it their own space.
Let Kids Choose the Books
Giving children the freedom to pick their own books fosters excitement about reading. Whether it’s a book about animals, cars, or magical adventures, letting them choose encourages their unique interests and makes them eager for reading time.
Quick Tip: Keep a variety of genres—picture books, rhymes, activity books—so there’s always something fresh for them to explore.
Woodpecker Books offers a collection with diverse genres and themes, from classic tales to inspiring stories of real-life leaders.
Creating a reading routine doesn’t have to be complex—it’s about sharing consistent, joyful moments with books. From basic picture and board books for babies to mystery stories for older children, you can cover every genre to ensure a delightful reading experience for your child with the collection at Woodpecker Books. Check them out here.
Have you found another successful way to make reading fun for your child? We’d love to hear your tips! Share what’s worked for you and your little one in building a happy reading routine. Your experience could inspire other parents looking to make reading a cherished part of their day.
This post is written in association with Woodpecker Books