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Book Mama Blog | How to Nurture a Love of Reading in Kids – Fun, Guilt-Free Strategies for Parents

Writer's picture: Jasmine AdebajoJasmine Adebajo

Updated: Jan 8

Let's Ditch the Guilt: Nurturing a Love of Reading, the Fun Way!


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Book Mama Blog | How to Nurture a Love of Reading in Kids – Fun, Guilt-Free Strategies for Parents

Let's talk about reading. It's a cornerstone of learning, a gateway to imagination, and honestly, just plain fun. But sometimes, the pressure to cultivate a mini bookworm can feel overwhelming. We picture ourselves as these patient, story-telling masterminds, and when reality doesn't quite match that picture, the guilt creeps in. The pressure to check that box can make reading feel more like a chore than an adventure. But here's the secret: fostering a love of reading shouldn't feel like a chore for either you or your child. It's an opportunity to connect, explore, and ignite a love for stories that naturally draw your little one into the world of books. So, ditch the guilt and embrace the fun!

"In the early stages of my daughter's reading journey, we had a cherished routine that became so familiar. It was the time spent reading bedtime stories. There was one particular storybook we read repeatedly that I was convinced I could recite the entire book better than the author. That book was The Gruffalo.

Every night, we would snuggle under her favourite blanket, surrounded by a towering stack of picture books we had read countless times.

One evening, as I read The Gruffalo for what felt like the millionth time, my daughter turned to me with wide eyes and whispered, "Mummy, can we read it again?"

In that quiet moment of tender exasperation, I realized how our bedtime story ritual not only created cherished moments for her but also etched indelible memories for me."


Here are some tips to help you navigate this journey with a smile:


The Fun Factor Matters:

Think back to your childhood. What motivated you with that spark to devour books as a child? Was it forced upon you, or did you find yourself drawn to the exciting worlds, quirky characters, and the sheer joy of getting lost in a good story? If you find yourself pleasurably reminiscing, chances are, it was the latter.


Embrace the Cuddle Time:

Reading doesn't have to be confined to bedtime. Snuggle up on the couch anytime, make it a part of your morning routine, or create a cosy "reading nook" with pillows and blankets. This sensory experience makes reading feel special and creates positive associations with books.


Make it Interactive:

Gone are the days of simply reading in a monotone. Infuse your voice with different tones and expressions for different characters. Make animal noises, act out scenes, let your child chime in with sound effects or even draw pictures together to visualize the story. This not only keeps them engaged but makes the story come alive.


parent chatting with child

Follow Their Lead:

Forget rigid schedules and books your child calls "boring". Spark your child's interest by letting them choose the stories they're drawn to. Whether it's a colourful picture book about dinosaurs, a comic book filled with superheroes, or a fact-filled book about insects, their excitement is contagious. Explore different genres, visit the library together, and let them get their hands on a variety of books. Allow them to discover the power of books in guiding them as they explore their interests. You might even be surprised by what sparks their curiosity!


Read Together (even if they're independent readers):

Just because your child can read independently doesn't mean you should stop reading together. Choose age-appropriate chapter books, and take turns reading pages or chapters. This isn't just about reading, it's about sharing a special experience and fostering a love of stories together.

Imagine reading as a treasure hunt. Instead of focusing on reading level or "correct" pronunciation, dive into the story together. Use silly voices, act out scenes, and ask questions that encourage your child's imagination. "What do you think will happen next?" "How would you feel if you were the lost kitten?" Let them be the co-pilot, making up their own endings or even drawing pictures of their favourite characters.


Embrace All Forms of Reading:

Remember, reading isn't just confined to traditional books. Expand their horizons with audiobooks, magazines, graphic novels, and even song lyrics! Sing along to their favourite nursery rhymes, or listen to an exciting audiobook together. Let them "read" their favourite picture books to you, pointing out pictures and telling the story in their own words.

PS. For busy schedules or reluctant readers, audiobooks are a fantastic option. Listen together while driving, doing chores, snack time, playtime or snuggling at bedtime.


What if They're Just Not Interested?

We've all been there. Your child might seem completely unfazed by the wonders within the pages of books. It's normal for children to go through phases where reading doesn't seem appealing. Here are some tips to spark their curiosity:

  • Make it a game: Ask them questions about the story, play "I Spy" with the illustrations, or create a scavenger hunt based on the book's content.

  • Keep it short and sweet: Start with shorter stories or picture books, gradually increasing the length as their attention span grows.

  • Limit screen time: excess time on devices can significantly decrease their attention span and make it harder for them to focus on the slower pace of reading.

  • Focus on the fun, not the frustration: Remember, the goal is to create positive associations with reading. Keep it light, playful, and enjoyable for both of you.

  • Take a break if needed: Don't force it! If they're losing interest, Sometimes, children need a temporary break from traditional books. Audiobooks, graphic novels, or even magazines can keep the reading spark alive until they're ready to dive back in.


Parent chatting with child

The key is to create a positive and enjoyable experience, not a stressful one. celebrate every step towards a love of reading, no matter how small, and avoid comparing your child to others. Reading should be a journey, their journey, not a race. When you approach reading with joy and enthusiasm, you set the stage for a lifelong love of learning and adventure, both for your child and for yourself.

So, Relax, have fun, and let the magic of storytelling unfold as you experience beautiful moments of connection that come from sharing the world of stories with your child. After all, wouldn’t you want to be the parent they remember for taking them on magical reading adventures? Grab a book, snuggle up, and get ready to embark on a journey filled with laughter, imagination, and the timeless power of written words.


Happy Reading

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