A recent Guardian article highlights a growing trend among younger parents, particularly from Gen Z, who report reading less frequently to their children. Some parents describe the routine as repetitive, time-consuming, or difficult to sustain with children who are easily distracted. While these concerns are understandable, educators caution that stepping back from shared reading risks overlooking one of the most powerful tools for children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Reading aloud is not only about passing time before bed. It exposes children to a richer vocabulary, strengthens attention and listening skills, encourages imagination, and fosters meaningful parent–child connection. For many children, these shared moments form the foundation of literacy and a lifelong engagement with books.
Building a love of reading is most effective when it feels natural and enjoyable. To help families foster this at home, here are practical strategies adapted from Language Diversity & Literacy Development Research Group at Harvard Graduate School of Education:
1. Create a Literacy-Rich Environment
Surround children with books, magazines, and printed material at home. Keeping reading material visible and accessible in different rooms encourages children to pick up books casually, not just when prompted.
2. Make Reading Part of Daily Routines
Set aside consistent times for shared reading — whether at bedtime, during breakfast, or on the commute to school. Predictable routines help children associate reading with comfort and security.
3. Offer Choice and Variety
Allow children to select books that match their interests, even if they seem repetitive or light in subject matter. Choice fosters autonomy and helps children see reading as a pleasure rather than an obligation.
4. Model Reading Yourself
Children learn as much from what adults do as from what they say. When parents are seen reading for enjoyment — whether books, newspapers, or articles — children are more likely to view reading as a valuable activity.
5. Engage in Conversations Around Books
Ask open-ended questions before, during, and after reading: “What do you think will happen next?” or “How do you think this character feels?” These discussions deepen comprehension and help children connect stories to their own experiences.
6. Connect Reading to Everyday Life
Show children how reading plays a role beyond books — from following a recipe to understanding signs on a journey. Linking stories to real-world contexts strengthens both relevance and motivation.
Every child develops a relationship with reading at their own pace. Some may be captivated quickly, while others need more time and encouragement. What matters is patience and consistency, along with finding approaches that make reading enjoyable for both parent and child. A story shared with genuine interest — even with interruptions or repeated favourites — is far more valuable than one read simply out of routine.
By making reading a natural and enjoyable part of daily life, parents can nurture skills that extend well beyond literacy, fostering imagination, empathy, and lifelong curiosity.
For more guidance, visit the Harvard Graduate School of Education, Language Diversity & Literacy Development Research Group website: Encouraging Your Child to Read.
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