In celebration of World Book Day and as part of our Born & Read campaign, teacher and reading for pleasure expert Jon Biddle shares his recommendations for simple, joyful ways families can spark a lifelong love of books.
We now understand just how powerful it can be when children choose to read in their free time.
Most people already know that it helps with reading comprehension, writing and vocabulary, but it also develops empathy, builds an understanding of community, improves knowledge of other cultures and benefits mental health.
Most of all, it can be hugely enjoyable. Here are a few simple ideas to help support children’s reading beyond school.
Let them choose!
Children are keener to read when they have ownership over what they’re reading.
It doesn’t matter what it is, as long as they develop the habit. Comics and graphic novels are hugely popular, as are diary-style books.
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Reading books by authors they already know and in styles that they’re familiar with will help increase their confidence levels, and they’ll choose to read more.
That’s not to say we shouldn’t ever guide their choices and suggest books, but the final decision should be theirs.
Have a daily reading routine
Sometimes, sitting and reading a story at the end of an exhausting day is the last thing busy parents feel like doing (I’m speaking from experience).
However, even putting aside 10 minutes each day can make an enormous difference to your child.
It needs to be fun and not feel like a lesson. Use silly voices and vary the volume. Ensure the TV is turned off and the phone is out of reach.
Make it predictable. Children thrive on routines, and if story time is the last thing they do before bed, they’ll find it reassuring and comforting.
Let them choose the book and accept that it might be the same one every night. That’s absolutely fine, as it improves vocabulary and strengthens memory.
I once read You Choose! with my youngest daughter every night for three months – although it actually felt like three years. One evening, she just decided it was time to read something else.
Be a reading role model
Show children that reading matters to you and is a regular part of your life.
I’m not suggesting sitting and reading a 600-page novel every night. It could be magazines, shorter books, poetry, recipes, anything!
READ MORE: Telling stories together: a simple way to support young children
Make reading a normal activity when you’re out and about, sitting on the bus or waiting at football practice. Finding a balance between reading and scrolling through TikTok can be hard, but it’s worth trying.
Talk about what you’re reading with them. Explain why you enjoyed a book or what you learned from it. Enthusiasm is contagious!
Create a reading-friendly space at home
Simply placing a bean bag and a couple of blankets next to a small collection of books and comics in a basket can encourage a child to start reading.
Start with favourite books they’re already familiar with, and rotate them occasionally. If you’re able to visit a library, it will keep costs down.
Having a couple of soft toys or a poster of a favourite character will help make it feel like it’s their space.
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Every small step counts. Every time you sit and read with your child, or talk about books together, you’re making a difference.
By making it fun, accessible and part of family life, you’re nurturing curiosity, imagination and a passion for learning.
Reading a story each night shows a child that they’re important and – above all – that they’re loved.
So, grab a book, snuggle up and start creating memories that will last forever.
This article is part of Born & Read in Suffolk – a year-long initiative highlighting the importance of reading and writing, delivered in partnership with the National Centre for Writing and Suffolk Community Libraries, sponsored by Sizewell C and supported by Ipswich Town Football Club. Follow the campaign throughout the year in our coverage and on social media using #BornAndRead2026 or get in touch at readingmatters@newsquest.co.uk
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