Does your child think reading is boring? Try these 5 fun ideas!
If getting your child to read feels like pulling teeth, you’re not alone. For many kids, reading can feel like homework instead of fun.
But here’s the good news: with a few creative tweaks, you can help your child discover the joy of reading!
Reading isn’t just about decoding words on a page; it’s a gateway to imagination, adventure, and new ideas. Yet, when kids associate reading with pressure or obligation, it’s no surprise they’d rather do anything else.
By shifting the focus to fun, you can transform how your child feels about books.

Here are five simple and effective strategies to make reading an activity your child will actually look forward to:
1. Let Kids Choose Their Own Books
Kids are more likely to read if they’re genuinely interested in the material. Whether it’s comics, graphic novels, joke books, or even sports statistics, the key is to let them pick what they enjoy. Don’t worry too much about the genre or format—any reading is good reading! You might be surprised how their curiosity blossoms when they have the freedom to explore what excites them.
Pro Tip: Take a trip to the library or bookstore and give your child the lead. Ask open-ended questions like, “What looks interesting to you?” or “Which character do you want to learn more about?”
2. Incorporate Audiobooks
Who says reading has to mean holding a book? Audiobooks can be an excellent way to engage reluctant readers, especially if they struggle with visual reading. Listening to stories during car rides, playtime, or even bedtime can spark interest and help build their vocabulary and comprehension skills. Plus, audiobooks narrated by dynamic voices can make the story come alive in a way that captivates young listeners.
Pro Tip: Pair an audiobook with the printed book to create a multi-sensory experience. This helps kids follow along and improves word recognition.
3. Make It a Game
Injecting some playfulness into reading can do wonders for engagement. Act out scenes from a book, assign silly voices to characters, or turn reading into a scavenger hunt by hiding clues in the text. These activities not only make reading fun but also encourage active participation, making stories feel more interactive.
Pro Tip: Try “book bingo” with challenges like “read under a blanket fort” or “read a book with an animal on the cover.” Small rewards for completing bingo squares can keep kids motivated.
4. Read Aloud Together
Don’t underestimate the power of reading aloud! Sharing a story is a bonding experience that allows you to connect with your child over a good book. For younger kids, it’s a comforting routine, while older kids might enjoy taking turns reading chapters of a mystery or adventure story. Even reluctant readers are likely to get caught up in the moment when it feels like a shared activity.
Pro Tip: Choose books with engaging plots and characters that spark conversation. After reading, talk about the story: “What do you think will happen next?” or “Which character do you relate to the most?”
5. Celebrate Reading Success
Who doesn’t love a little recognition? Celebrating milestones—like finishing a book or reading a set number of pages—can make reading feel more rewarding. Create a simple reading challenge or a sticker chart to track progress. When they reach a goal, celebrate with a special treat, like a movie night based on the book or a trip to pick out their next read.
Pro Tip: Frame it as a family challenge where everyone participates. Seeing parents or siblings engaged in reading sets a positive example and normalizes the habit.
Want help finding books your kids will enjoy?
👉 Check out our free PREP TIP Library for book recommendations, guides, and more tips to make reading fun and stress-free. It’s all thanks to our partnership with the Decatur Education Foundation and Beacon Hill PTA.
Happy reading!
Join the Conversation
“Do these tips work for your child? Let us know what strategies you’re using to make reading fun in the comments!”
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