Discover ways to help your child not only read more, but enjoy it more too.
There’s something so special about watching a child get lost in a story. A lifelong love of reading often starts young, and it’s truly one of the most meaningful gifts we can give to the next generation. Stories open doors to new worlds, grow empathy, expand vocabularies, and spark wild, beautiful imaginations.
But with so many distractions tugging at their attention—from busy schedules to ever-present screens—it can feel tricky to nurture that love of books. The good news? It doesn’t have to be complicated. A little creativity, a touch of consistency, and a lot of enthusiasm go a long way.
Here are seven heartwarming ways you can help the little ones in your life fall in love with reading:
1. Let Them Pick the Book
One of the easiest (and most effective) ways to encourage reading is to let kids choose what they want to read. Whether it’s a silly joke book, a fantasy adventure, a stack of comics, or a nonfiction book about dinosaurs, giving them ownership over their reading choices builds confidence—and makes it far more likely they’ll stick with it.
2. Make Reading Part of Everyday Life
When reading becomes a regular, expected part of the day, it stops feeling like a chore and starts feeling like comfort. A bedtime story, a book in the car, quiet reading after school, or bringing a favorite book on errands—small moments add up and create lasting habits.
3. Create a Cozy Reading Nook
A welcoming little reading spot can turn books into an irresistible invitation. It doesn’t need to be elaborate. A comfy chair, a soft blanket, a basket of books, and a little lamp or string of lights can make all the difference. Bonus points if you build a reading fort on a rainy afternoon!
4. Keep Reading Aloud—Even When They Can Read Themselves
There’s no age limit on the magic of being read to. Reading aloud builds listening skills, grows vocabulary, and strengthens comprehension—but it also creates tender, memorable moments together. Older kids still enjoy hearing stories; it’s a chance to laugh, wonder, and talk about big ideas.
5. Be a Reader Yourself
Children notice what we do far more than what we say. If they see you reading—whether it’s a novel, a magazine, or a recipe book—they’ll understand that reading is something people of all ages love to do. Share what you’re reading and why you’re enjoying it. That quiet modeling matters.
6. Match Books to Their Passions
Is your little one obsessed with horses, outer space, or superheroes? Find books that tap into those interests. It makes reading feel personal and exciting. For younger kids, picture books based on their hobbies are a great place to start. Older readers might gravitate toward nonfiction or chapter books that dive deeper into their favorite topics.
7. Bring Stories to Life
Some of the most magical reading moments happen beyond the page. Cook a recipe from a book. Act out a favorite scene. Draw pictures of the characters. Visit the library or a local bookstore. Attend a storytime event. These activities help children see that books aren’t just words on a page—they’re part of a bigger, imaginative, and joyful world.
If you know a children’s book that inspires young readers and helps them fall in love with storytelling, we’d love to see it! Enter it into the Kiddable Awards and join a wonderful community of storytellers shaping hearts and minds through the power of books.
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