One of my fondest memories of being a parent when my children were young is inspiring their love of reading. Anytime they asked me to read to them, I would drop everything, pick up a book, and immerse us in a story. Night-time reading was a special time that they looked forward to with me. It provided an opportunity to have one on one time and helped make us closer. We are all still avid readers and my children are now in their twenties!

Reading is more than just a skill—it’s a gateway to knowledge, imagination, and personal growth. In a world filled with digital distractions, fostering a love for reading in children is more important than ever. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or lifelong learner, cultivating a reading habit can open doors to creativity, critical thinking, and empathy. Here’s how to make reading a natural and enjoyable part of life.

1. Make Reading a Daily Habit

Consistency is key when developing a love for reading. Setting aside a specific time each day, even just 15–20 minutes, helps make reading a habit rather than a chore. Morning, bedtime, or after meals—find what works best and stick to it.

For children, a bedtime story can create a lifelong association between books and comfort. Over time, this nightly tradition nurtures a love for books, strengthens language development, improves vocabulary and enhances imagination. As children grow, they often carry this deep association into their independent reading habits, seeing books as a source of comfort and inspiration.

2. Create a Reading-Friendly Environment

A cozy reading space can make all the difference. Whether it’s a corner filled with cushions, a well-lit nook, or a quiet spot in the garden, having a dedicated place for reading encourages the habit. Keep books easily accessible on shelves, coffee tables, or even in the car to make grabbing a book easy.

3. Lead by Example

Children and younger readers are more likely to pick up a book if they see the adults around them enjoying reading. Model the behavior you want to instill by making time for reading yourself. Share interesting books, discuss stories at dinner, and show enthusiasm for literature.

4. Let Them Choose Their Own Books

Freedom of choice plays a major role in developing a love for reading. While it’s great to introduce classics and educational books, allowing children to explore genres that genuinely interest them will make reading more enjoyable. Comics, graphic novels, fantasy, adventure, or even magazines—whatever sparks curiosity should be encouraged.

5. Make Reading Interactive and Social

Reading doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. Discussing books with friends or joining a book club can make it more engaging. Reading aloud to children, role-playing characters, or even creating alternate endings to stories can enhance their enjoyment.

For kids, visits to the library, storytelling events, and author meet-and-greets can make reading an exciting experience. 

6. Connect Books to Real-Life Experiences

Bringing stories to life can deepen a reader’s connection to books. If a child reads a book about dinosaurs, visit a museum. If someone enjoys travel literature, plan a trip to a place they’ve read about. These real-world connections make books more meaningful and engaging.

7. Embrace Different Formats

Traditional books are wonderful, but reading is not limited to print. Audiobooks, e-books, and podcasts based on literature can cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Audiobooks, for instance, are great for busy schedules, long commutes, or reluctant readers who struggle with printed text.

8. Reward and Celebrate Reading

Encouraging reading with small rewards can be motivating, especially for younger readers. This doesn’t mean bribing with toys or treats, but rather celebrating reading milestones—like a trip to a bookstore, a special bookmark, or an extra bedtime story.

9. Encourage Critical Thinking and Discussion

Engaging with books beyond just reading the words is essential. Ask questions about the story, encourage predictions, and discuss characters’ motivations. This not only strengthens comprehension skills but also fosters a deeper appreciation for literature.

10. Keep It Fun and Pressure-Free

The key to instilling a love for reading is to keep it enjoyable. Avoid making it feel like a forced assignment or punishment. If a book isn’t resonating, allow your child to switch to another. The key is to associate reading with pleasure, not a chore.