In today’s tech-dominated world, teens have more access to content than ever before. A few taps on a phone open up an endless stream of videos, memes, and reels. However, while digital content can be entertaining, it’s fleeting. Helping teens prioritize reading over doomscrolling isn’t just about limiting screen time, it’s about opening the door to a richer, more imaginative world.

It’s no secret that reading has taken a hit in the age of smartphones. Studies consistently show that teens read fewer books for pleasure than they did a decade ago. According to an article published by the American Psychological Association, “In recent years, less than 20 percent of U.S. teens report reading a book, magazine or newspaper daily for pleasure, while more than 80 percent say they use social media every day.”

Instead, free time is increasingly spent online, where attention spans are shorter and content is designed to be quickly consumed and then just as quickly forgotten. While there’s nothing wrong with digital media in moderation, overuse can crowd out the deep focus, empathy, and critical thinking that reading fosters.

The good news? Teens can still fall in love with reading! The key as parents and educators is not to demonize screens, but to help teens find space for books in their busy lives.

Start by Talking About the Difference
Teens may be young, but they are smart. Skip the lecture. Instead of banning screens or forcing them to read, start a conversation about the differences between scrolling and reading. Ask how they feel after a half hour on social media compared to a half hour with a great story. Most teens can recognize that reading a book offers a more immersive and rewarding experience, even if it’s not always their instinctive choice.

Help Them Find the Right Books
One of the most common reasons teens don’t read is simple: they haven’t found just the right book yet. Encourage your teen to explore genres that align with their interests. Whether it’s fantasy, mystery, sports, true crime, romance, or graphic novels there’s a book out there that is sure to inspire.

Not sure where to start? The American Library Association published “The Best Fiction for Young Adults List” each year, which honors the best fiction books published for teens. Or, visit your local library. Your librarian is sure to have recommendations to share.

Lead by Example
Teens often mirror the habits they see. If they see you scrolling endlessly, they’ll take that as normal behavior. If they see you reading a book—and enjoying it—they’re more likely to think of reading as something adults choose to do. Try reading during downtime, before bed, or on weekends. Talk casually about what you’re reading and what you’re loving about it. Curiosity is contagious. (Click here for more detailed tips on modeling reading behavior.) 

Make Books Accessible
Having books around the house—on shelves, on coffee tables, on nightstands—makes it easy for teens to grab one when the mood strikes. You can also set up a shared book basket in a common area, filled with a mix of teen-friendly reads and adult books they might want to try. Don’t underestimate the “power of proximity”!

Create Tech-Free Zones or Times
Establishing screen-free routines can help carve out time for reading. This doesn’t need to be a punishment—it can be a family reset. Try a “no phone” hour after dinner where everyone (teens and adults included) puts their devices away. Use this time to read, play games together, or just unwind. The first few days might be met with resistance, but persevere! Over time this can become something your family actually looks forward to.

Introduce Audiobooks
For teens who struggle with traditional reading for whatever reason (learning differences, focus issues, or just personal preference) consider audiobooks. They offer the same rich stories, but in a format that can be more engaging for some. Listening to books while walking the dog, doing chores, or riding in the car is a great way to make reading part of everyday life. (It can also become a great shared reading experience!)

Tie Reading to Their Passions
If your teen is obsessed with music, find memoirs by musicians or novels about bands. If they love gaming, look for sci-fi or dystopian stories that tap into similar worlds. Reading doesn’t have to feel academic. It’s best if it feels like an extension of what they already enjoy.

Respect Their Reading Journey
Some teens will take to books quickly. Others may need more time. Either way, try not to criticize what they choose to read. (It can be hard!) Comic books, graphic novels, magazines, or even cookbooks all count as reading. No matter what they read, once a reading habit forms, it often expands naturally.

Celebrate Their Reading Wins
Finally, celebrate when your teen finishes a book—especially if it’s not something they were assigned. Acknowledge their effort, ask what they thought of the story, or suggest a sequel or similar title. Your interest helps reinforce that reading isn’t a chore. It’s something meaningful.

About Success Won’t Wait

Founded in 2002, Success Won’t Wait is a not-for-profit literacy organization based in Wilmington, Delaware. Want to learn more about Success Won’t Wait’s literacy projects, how to donate used children’s books in Delaware, or volunteer your time? Click on the About Us tab above.

Read now, because success won’t wait!