It’s the phrase that can make a book-loving parent’s heart sink… “I hate reading.” Before you envision a future of failed exams or lost opportunities, take a deep breath. Resistance to reading is rarely about a lack of intelligence. It’s usually a reaction, or a lack of connection, confidence, or interest.

Identify the “Why?”

Before jumping into solutions, observe. Is the reading material too difficult, leading to frustration? Does your child struggle with decoding words, which might point toward a learning difference like dyslexia? Or are they simply bored?

If reading feels like a chore rather than a fun activity, “hating” it is a natural defense mechanism.

Think Beyond Traditional Books

In many households, “reading” only counts if it involves a 200-page chapter book. This is a myth that kills motivation. So, it’s time to try something new.

Joke books, cookbooks or travel magazines all “count” as reading. Find what resonates with your child and watch their interest grow.

Graphic novels and comics, for example, are a great intermediary step for reluctant readers. The visual context clues help with comprehension and reduce the intimidation of a wall of text.

Learn more here: Why Graphic Novels Are a Powerful Tool for Young Readers

Ease Off on the Pressure

School-mandated reading logs can turn reading into a chore. If your child is already struggling, the pressure to hit a 20-minute timer makes reading feel like homework.

As much as possible, try to de-emphasize the “requirement.” Instead of saying, “Go do your 20 minutes,” try, “I’m going to read my magazine on the couch; come hang out with your book if you want.” Lowering the stakes makes reading less like of demand and more of a pleasant lifestyle choice.

Model Good Behavior

Children are observant. If they never see you pick up a book to read for pleasure, they won’t view reading as a lifelong habit. Let them see you reading novels, newspapers, or even digital articles. Discuss what you’re reading at breakfast, in the car, or at dinner, “I read something crazy today about deep-sea squids…”

Keep Reading Aloud (Even to Big Kids)

Many parents stop reading to their children once the child learns to read independently. This is often where the “hate” begins. When a child struggles to read on their own, the stories he can read are often too simple to be interesting. But, by continuing to read books together that are slightly above the current reading level, you keep them hooked on complex plots, interesting characters and sophisticated humor. You handle the “work” of the reading, and they get to enjoy the “magic” of the story.

Read more tips and techniques for success: “Harness the Power of Reading Aloud to Kids of All Ages.”

Employ the “Ten Page” Rule

Ever begin reading a book, only to abandon it halfway? Give your child permission to “dump” a book, too. Tell them they only have to read the first ten pages (or two chapters). If they aren’t hooked by then, they can put it back and pick another. This gives them agency and control. Knowing they aren’t “trapped” in a boring book (unless required by school) makes them much more willing to try new ones.

Create Crucial Book Access

You don’t need a massive library, but age-appropriate books should be accessible. Keep them in the car, in the family room and on the bedside table.

Visit the library frequently, but don’t police their choices (too much). If they want to check out the same Captain Underpants book for the 11th time, let them. Fluency is built through repetition and comfort.

Learn more: “What Does Book Access Really Mean and How Does it Benefit Children of all Ages?”

Use Tech to Your Advantage

If your child is a screen-lover, don’t fight it. Use it. E-readers (like Kindles) allow kids to increase the font size and change the spacing, which can make a page look much less daunting. Some kids also feel a sense of “coolness” reading on a device, rather than a physical book.

Learn how to balance choices: “E-Readers vs. Print Books: You Don’t Have to Choose Just One!”

Remember, the goal isn’t to force your child to love every book. It’s to help find the one book that changes their mind!

About Success Won’t Wait

Founded in 2002, Success Won’t Wait, Inc. is a not-for-profit literacy organization based in Wilmington, Delaware. Want to learn more about Success Won’t Wait’s book access and literacy projects, how to donate books or volunteer your time? Simply visit About Success Won’t Wait.

Read now, because success won’t wait!