Reading Matters
Reading Matters
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Reading Reminders to support reading at home:
1. Create a Reading-Friendly Environment
Ensure books are always available and visible in your home. According to a study by Evans et al. (2010), homes with books positively influence children’s academic outcomes, regardless of socioeconomic background. Consider creating a “reading nook” or simply have books and magazines in shared spaces.
Example: Visit the library together and let your child choose books or graphic novels that interest them. Reluctant readers often respond well to visual storytelling formats like comics.
2. Model Reading for Pleasure
Children mimic behaviour. If they see you reading for enjoyment, they’re more likely to view reading as a positive activity rather than a chore.
Example: Set aside 20 minutes after dinner for “family reading time.” Choose your own book while they read theirs. Discuss what you’re both enjoying.
3. Use Technology Positively
Research by Baron (2021) shows that e-books and audiobooks can be effective tools for engaging reluctant readers. Audiobooks, in particular, improve listening and comprehension skills while building vocabulary.
Example: Suggest listening to an audiobook together during car journeys or while doing chores. Pair it with the physical book to reinforce word recognition.
4. Choose High-Interest, Accessible Texts
Many struggling readers benefit from texts tailored to their interests or ones written at an appropriate reading level. Experts like Louise Rosenblatt highlight the importance of “reader response,” where engagement with texts is enhanced through personal connection.
Example: If your child loves football, try sports-themed novels like Kick by Mitch Johnson or non-fiction like You Are a Champion by Marcus Rashford.
5. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Acknowledging small wins helps build confidence and motivation. Educational psychologist Carol Dweck’s work on growth mindset demonstrates that praising effort and progress fosters resilience.
Example: If your child finishes a book, or reads consistently for a predetermined amount of time each week, reward their achievement with a special activity at the weekend or during the holidays.
6. Read Together—At Any Age
Even older children can benefit from shared reading experiences. Reading aloud fosters bonding, models fluency, and enhances comprehension, as shown in research by Trelease (2013).
Example: Take turns reading chapters aloud. Discuss characters or predictions to make it interactive and engaging.
7. Link Reading to Real-Life Experiences
Show your child how reading connects to their world. Contextual learning improves comprehension and helps make abstract concepts tangible.
Example: If you’re planning a holiday, explore travel guides together. If they enjoy cooking, encourage them to read and follow recipes.
8. Build Vocabulary in Everyday Life
Expanding vocabulary through natural conversation supports literacy development, as supported by Beck, McKeown, and Kucan’s work on vocabulary instruction.
Example: Discuss new words from books or everyday experiences. Play word-based games like Scrabble or Bananagrams as a fun alternative.
9. Encourage Peer Recommendations
Peers often inspire reluctant readers more than adults, according to Guthrie and Humenick (2004). Organise or join book clubs where children can share recommendations and discuss books.
Example: Ask if the school has a reading club, or encourage your child to swap books with friends.
10. Seek Guidance and Resources from School
Schools often have resources and expertise to support struggling readers. Working together ensures a consistent approach.
Example: Speak to your child’s teacher about their progress. They may suggest tailored resources or interventions like paired reading programmes.
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