Reading is one of the most important skills your child will ever learn. It opens the door to every other subject at school, builds confidence, and sparks imagination.But how can you make reading fun and effective at home, especially if your child is reluctant or finds it challenging?
The good news? You don’t need to be a teacher to make a difference. With a few simple strategies, you can help your child build strong reading habits and enjoy the world of books.
Why Reading is Key for Your Child
Reading does more than help with schoolwork; it shapes how your child sees the world. Regular reading boosts vocabulary, improves comprehension, and even supports problem-solving in subjects like maths. For primary school children, just 10 minutes a day can lead to big gains, including:
- Faster vocabulary growth
- Better understanding of texts
- Improved writing skills
- Increased confidence across subjects
Whether your child is just starting out or tackling chapter books, you can make a huge difference with these practical tips.
7 Fun Ways to Support Reading at Home
1. Create a Cosy Reading Nook
Kids love their own special spaces. Set up a comfy reading corner with cushions, a bean bag, or a blanket. Add a shelf of age-appropriate books, like picture books for younger kids or short chapter books for older ones. A dedicated spot makes reading feel exciting.
Try this: Let your child decorate their nook with fairy lights or a poster of their favourite book character to make it their own.
2. Read Together Daily
Spend 10-15 minutes reading with your child every day. For younger kids (5-7), read aloud with silly voices to keep them hooked. For older kids (8-12), take turns reading or chat about the story. This builds skills and strengthens your bond. Looking for great books to share? Check out our curated book list for 7-9-year-olds at the Primary Tutor Project bookshop, featuring engaging titles like Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney, perfect for reluctant readers, or The BFG by Roald Dahl, a magical story to spark their imagination.
Try this: Choose a gripping series like Horrid Henry or The Magic Tree House to keep them eager for the next book.
3. Make Reading a Game
Turn reading into play to keep it fun. Create a “reading treasure hunt” with clues hidden in books, or have them act out a scene after reading a page. These activities make reading interactive, especially for younger kids.
Try this: Use a sticker chart to reward finishing books or chapters, leading to a treat like a library trip or new book.
4. Encourage Real-Life Reading
Show your child that reading is everywhere. Point out words on cereal boxes, shop signs, or recipes. For older kids, read a simple recipe together and cook something fun, like biscuits, to make reading practical.
Try this: At the supermarket, ask your child to read the shopping list or find items by reading labels. It’s a sneaky way to practice.
5. Visit the Library Together
Libraries are a treasure trove for young readers. Take your child to explore books, attend storytelling sessions, or join reading clubs for 5-12-year-olds. Letting them choose books like comics or adventure stories boosts their enthusiasm.
Try this: Join a summer reading challenge in June, if your library offers one, for fun rewards and motivation.
6. Talk About Books
After reading, chat about the story. Ask, “What was your favourite part?” or “How did the character feel?” These questions help kids think deeply and connect stories to their lives, boosting comprehension.
Try this: Over dinner, ask your child to share their book’s story and share yours too, making it a fun family chat.
7. Be a Reading Role Model
Kids learn by watching you. If they see you enjoying a book, magazine, or even a recipe, they’re more likely to want to read too. Talk about what you’re reading and why you love it. For example, you might say, “I’m reading this mystery book, and I can’t wait to find out what happens next!” This shows your child that reading is something everyone can enjoy.
Try this: Set up a 15-minute family reading time where everyone reads quietly together, creating a calm, book-loving vibe.
Creating a Reading-Friendly Home
- Cosy spot: Set up a reading nook with good lighting and comfy seating.
- Accessible books: Keep a bookshelf or basket of books in their room.
- Fresh choices: Rotate books regularly to keep things exciting.
- Audiobooks: Try audiobooks for car trips or quiet time to mix things up.
Helping Reluctant or Struggling Readers
If your child finds reading tough or isn’t keen:
- Pick books that match their interests and reading level.
- Celebrate small wins, like reading a page or decoding a word.
- Keep sessions short and manageable.
- Stay patient and encouraging.
- Chat with their teacher or consider extra support if needed.
How Primary Tutor Project Can Help?
If your child needs a bit of extra support with reading, we’re here to help. At Primary Tutor Project, our experienced tutors offer personalised online lessons in English for children aged 5-12. We focus on making learning fun, with activities tailored to your child’s needs. Whether they’re struggling with phonics or need help with comprehension, our tutors can boost their confidence and skills.
Want to give your child a head start in reading? Get in touch with us today and see how we can support your child’s learning journey.
Final Thoughts
Helping your child love reading is one of the best gifts you can give them. By creating a fun, supportive environment at home, you’re setting them up for success in school and beyond. Try one or two of these tips this week and watch your child’s confidence grow. What’s your favourite way to make reading fun for your child? Share your ideas with us, and let’s inspire each other!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should my child read daily?
Aim for 10-15 minutes daily. Short, regular sessions are more effective than long, occasional ones.
What if my child keeps reading the same book?
That’s fine! Re-reading builds fluency and confidence. Gently introduce new books alongside their favourites.
Should I correct every reading mistake?
Not always. Let them try first, then gently guide. Focus on praising effort to keep it positive.
How do I choose the right book level?
Use the “five finger rule”: if they struggle with more than five words per page, it might be too hard.
Can audiobooks help?
Yes! Audiobooks build vocabulary and comprehension, especially for reluctant readers.
