How to help a reluctant reader

Plenty of children go through a stage of not wanting to read. They may find it hard, feel they are not good at it, or simply prefer a screen or a football. The aim is not to force them; it is to rebuild a sense of enjoyment and confidence.

If you are worried about your child’s reading, talk to their teacher. Some children need extra support, such as help with reading difficulties, and early help makes a real difference.

Ten strategies

1. Find the right book. Often reluctant readers have never met a book that matches their interests. Ask about their hobbies and search for books on those topics.
2. Let them choose. Choice builds ownership. Do not veto comics, joke books or books you think are “too easy”.
3. Try different formats. Graphic novels, magazines, audiobooks, joke books and non-fiction all count as reading.
4. Keep it short. Short chapters, short books and short sessions build confidence.
5. Read together. Take turns, with you reading a page and your child reading a page. Or read to them while they follow along.
6. Make it comfortable. A cosy corner, a blanket or even a torch under the duvet can make reading feel like a treat.
7. Be a role model. Let your child see you read, whether it is a book, a magazine or the newspaper.
8. Connect reading to real life. Read recipes, game instructions, football reports and signs. Reading is everywhere.
9. Celebrate effort, not speed. Praise persistence, not just results.
10. Take the pressure off. Avoid turning reading into homework, charts or rewards. The goal is enjoyment.

Try this: Choose a funny book and read the first chapter aloud with plenty of expression. Then stop at a cliffhanger. Many children will pick it up to find out what happens.

Books that hook reluctant readers

These tend to work well because they are fast, funny or visual:

• Dog Man by Dav Pilkey, a graphic novel with silly jokes and lots of pictures.
• The Legend of Spud Murphy by Eoin Colfer, a short comic story about a library.
• You’re a Bad Man, Mr Gum! by Andy Stanton, absurd and funny.
• Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy, with fast action and plenty of jokes.
• Holes by Louis Sachar, a mystery with short chapters.

For more, see our guides to books for early readers and books for ages 9–12.

When to seek extra help

If your child avoids reading, finds it a struggle or seems upset by it, speak to their teacher. They can tell you whether your child needs extra support. If you suspect a difficulty such as dyslexia, ask the school about assessment options and supports available.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my child hate reading?

There are many possible reasons: reading may feel difficult, the books may not interest them, or it may feel like a chore. Finding the cause is the first step. A chat with your child, and with their teacher, can help.

Should I make my child read every day?

Gentle routine helps, but forcing can backfire. Try a short, regular time, such as ten minutes after dinner, and make it pleasant.

Do audiobooks count as reading?

Yes, they build vocabulary, comprehension and a love of stories. Many children who find reading hard enjoy audiobooks as a way into longer books. Listening while following along with the printed book can also help.

Are reward charts a good idea?

They can work for some children in the short term, but research suggests that rewards can reduce a child’s own interest in a task. Praise and shared enjoyment usually work better.