Reading can be a mixed bag — some children dive into books with joy, while others equate it to a chore. As parents, it’s our privilege to nurture a love for learning that goes beyond the classroom. Summer offers the perfect opportunity to boost your child’s reading comprehension and increase confidence heading into the next school year. But first, let’s tackle the big question: How do we make reading fun?
Build a cozy routine
One of the easiest ways to encourage your child is by setting the scene. Whether it’s a soft beanbag by the window, a porch swing with a favorite blanket or a quiet, well-lit corner indoors, having a dedicated space helps your little one feel relaxed and ready to engage. Over time, this spot becomes a place your child associates with comfort, curiosity and (most importantly) books. Having books accessible throughout the house keeps reading top-of-mind as a pastime activity. A basket filled with favorite stories can be taken to any cozy spot in the house or even on the go.
Libraries are another wonderful place to start. Think of the library like an imagination playground and embrace spending time exploring it together. Encourage your children to browse the shelves and see what captures their interest. Many schools also provide summer reading lists, which can be a helpful jumping-off point for selecting your child’s next book.
Let them take the lead
While structure has its place, offering choices is key when it comes to building a reader’s confidence. Allow your child to select from age-appropriate options and decide where to sit while reading the story. When our little ones feel empowered, they begin to see books not as a task, but a gateway to new worlds ready to be explored. These small decisions help foster independence and develop their unique identity as a reader.
Make it interactive
Reading aloud to your child is a form of entertainment that also sparks imagination and builds foundational literacy skills. When children hear stories, they begin to visualize scenes, expand their vocabulary and strengthen cognitive development. Turn read-alouds up a notch by trying out different voices for characters, using clothing around the house to create costumes or drawing pictures of the characters.
You can also discover local community events that make reading fun. At Kiddie Academy®, for example, we host Storytime LIVE! events nationwide each summer to bring stories to life and help little ones experience books in a way that feels exciting and social.
Be curious about their learning
To engage in your child’s reading journey, you can ask thought-provoking questions like, “What’s happening in the story now?” or “What do you think the character will do next?” This type of involvement can deepen reading comprehension and bring stories to life through conversation. This shared engagement not only improves their understanding but also helps your children form emotional bonds with the characters and you.
Summer is the perfect season to grow your little ones’ love for stories. By building cozy routines, giving them the freedom to choose and joining in on their literary adventures, we can show our children that reading is more than just important, it can also be fun. So, let’s turn the page together and make this summer one filled with imagination, connection and the joy of a good book.
