Little tips from Zebrabook
What if a love of reading begins with a love of dreaming?
You don't have to devour novels to love stories. Sometimes, a beautiful illustration, a funny character or a moment shared together is all it takes for the magic to begin.
A colourful book, a story to discover and countless reasons to be amazed.
"I don't like reading!"
Many parents have heard those words before. Some children would rather run around, draw, build things or invent games than settle down with a book. Others become discouraged when they come across difficult words or begin to associate reading mainly with schoolwork.
And that can feel frustrating, especially when you would love to pass on your own enjoyment of books.
But a child who doesn't enjoy reading today won't necessarily feel that way forever. A love of reading can develop gradually through positive experiences that suit each child's interests and needs.
The most important thing isn't to make children read lots of books or insist on a particular kind of story. It's to give them opportunities to discover that stories can be funny, exciting, comforting and full of surprises.
Here are 10 ways to encourage a child who doesn't like reading, without turning books into another obligation.
1. Start with their interests, not the books they "should" be reading
A child who loves dinosaurs may be far more interested in a book about prehistoric animals than a traditional fairy tale. Another might be fascinated by planets, vehicles, wildlife or adventures full of humour.
So, if you want to encourage reading, begin with something the child already enjoys.
Books can become another exciting way to explore a favourite subject.
A question worth asking
Instead of asking, "Which book would be good for them?", try: "What would make them curious enough to turn the next page?"
Non-fiction books, comics, picture books and personalised stories can all be wonderful starting points. There isn't just one way to become a reader.
2. Make reading a moment of connection, not a chore
When a child repeatedly hears "Read another page", "Try harder" or "You have to read for twenty minutes", reading can start to feel like another task on their to-do list.
By contrast, a few relaxed minutes spent sharing a story can become a little ritual they genuinely look forward to.
You might curl up together on the sofa, read before bedtime, enjoy a story after an afternoon snack or find a quiet moment at the weekend.
An adult can read aloud, give the characters funny voices, pause at an amusing illustration or simply listen to what the child wants to say.
What matters isn't how long you read, but how enjoyable the moment feels. Five happy minutes are worth more than a long reading session that feels like a chore.
3. Let children choose their own books
Adults sometimes choose children's books according to the recommended age, educational value or suggestions from school.
Those things can be useful, but a child's personal tastes matter just as much.
At the library or bookshop, let them browse the shelves, flick through different books and pick whatever catches their eye.
They might choose something very simple, a comic or a story they already know by heart. That's absolutely fine.
Being able to choose for themselves can make children more eager to open a book.
Something to try
Offer three very different books and let the child decide which one to explore. They can even choose to read just a few pages or begin by looking at the pictures.
4. Never underestimate the power of illustrations
For a child who doesn't enjoy reading, a page packed with text can seem overwhelming.
Illustrations offer another way into a story. They help children understand what's happening, recognise emotions, imagine events and guess what might come next.
A beautifully illustrated book can therefore be especially appealing to a child who is still hesitant about reading.
They can begin by studying the pictures, asking questions and inventing their own story before reading a single word.
And despite what some people think, picture books aren't just for toddlers. Older children can enjoy rich, detailed illustrations and imaginative visual worlds too.
A little observation game
Before reading a page, ask: "What do you think will happen next?" Then discover together whether their imagination was right.
5. Choose stories they can see themselves in
Some children become more interested in a story when it feels personally relevant to them.
Perhaps a character shares their passions, experiences something familiar or goes on an adventure they would love to have themselves.
Personalised children's books offer another possibility: including the child's own name directly in the story.
Imagine their surprise when they discover that they're the one travelling through time, meeting extraordinary characters or being given a mysterious mission.
Suddenly, the book isn't simply telling someone else's story. It's inviting the young reader to imagine themselves right in the middle of the action.
What if the hero had their name?
For some children, seeing their own name in a story can be the little spark that encourages them to listen more closely and ask: "What happens to me next?"
In The Time Travel – Volume 1, the child's name accompanies an exciting adventure through different periods of history.
Of course, a personalised book isn't a magic solution. But when the story matches a child's interests, it can offer an extra reason to discover what happens next.
6. Keep reading aloud, even when they can read independently
Once children begin learning to read, it's tempting to encourage them to do as much reading on their own as possible.
But being able to read and enjoying reading are two different things.
A child may be perfectly capable of reading a sentence while still finding the effort tiring, particularly when they're learning to recognise words more fluently.
Continuing to read aloud helps preserve the pleasure of discovering stories without making every page an exercise in decoding words.
You can also take turns: the adult reads a paragraph, the child reads a sentence, then the adult continues. Or simply enjoy the story together without asking the child to read at all.
Listening to stories is a valuable way of engaging with books, too.
7. Create a cosy little reading corner
You don't need an entire library to encourage a child to enjoy books.
A comfortable cushion, a blanket, a small lamp and a few accessible books can be enough to create a welcoming space.
Ideally, books should be visible and easy to reach. When they're stored at a child's height, children can choose them spontaneously.
This reading corner shouldn't become somewhere a child is sent to practise reading. It should remain a place associated with calm, relaxation and enjoyment.
What makes a lovely reading corner?
✓ A comfortable, peaceful spot
✓ A few books chosen together
✓ Soft, pleasant lighting
✓ The freedom to browse, look at pictures or listen
✓ And, above all, no pressure to finish a book
8. Bring stories to life beyond the pages
A story doesn't have to end when the book is closed.
If the story is about animals, why not look out for them on a walk? If it takes place in space, you could gaze at the stars together. If the characters travel through time, you might explore pictures of castles, pyramids or ancient civilisations.
These little activities help connect stories with real-life experiences.
They might even encourage the child to open the book again to find a favourite character or a detail they noticed earlier.
Four ways to extend a story
9. Show that grown-ups enjoy reading too
Children notice a great deal about the habits of the adults around them.
Seeing a parent enjoying a novel, following a recipe, reading a magazine or exploring a non-fiction book can show them that reading is a natural part of everyday life.
You don't need to read enormous novels to set an example. What matters is showing that words can help us discover, understand, imagine and enjoy ourselves.
You can also share your own discoveries: tell them about a funny passage, show them a lovely illustration or explain why you enjoyed a particular story.
A child doesn't need to be constantly reminded that reading is important. Sometimes, they simply need to see how much pleasure it brings to the people they love.
10. Respect their pace and celebrate little victories
Some children develop a passion for books very early on. Others need more time to discover the stories they truly enjoy.
It's important to avoid comparisons with siblings, classmates or other children of the same age.
A child who listens carefully to a story, asks a question about an illustration or requests their favourite passage again is already showing an interest in books.
These small signs deserve to be welcomed positively, without turning them into another performance target.
A love of reading isn't a race.
Sometimes it grows one page, one laugh and one story at a time.
If a child experiences persistent reading difficulties, becomes unusually tired while reading or seems particularly anxious about written words, it may also be helpful to speak with their teacher. Sometimes, appropriate support can make reading feel easier and more enjoyable.
A little idea for every reading challenge
There's no single solution that works for every child. But depending on what's holding them back, some approaches may be easier to try than others.
| If the child... | You could try... |
|---|---|
| Finds reading boring | A book about their current passion, a comic or a funny story |
| Gets discouraged by difficult words | An illustrated book and shared reading aloud |
| Struggles to stay focused | Short reading sessions, questions and interactive stories |
| Would rather play | Stories to act out, draw or continue with toys |
| Isn't interested in the characters | A story that reflects their interests or one they can see themselves in |
Common mistakes to avoid when a child doesn't like reading
When we're trying to encourage reading, some well-intentioned reactions can occasionally have the opposite effect.
Comparing children
Every child develops their interests and abilities at their own pace.
Insisting on books that are too difficult
A story that's too challenging can discourage rather than inspire.
Correcting every mistake
During reading for pleasure, it's often better to preserve the flow of the story and encourage the child's efforts.
Turning every book into an exercise
Books can also be a chance to relax, without questions or a test at the end.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions about children who don't enjoy reading
Why doesn't my child like reading?
There can be many reasons: a lack of interest in the books offered, difficulties with reading, tiredness, a preference for other activities or negative experiences associated with reading. Understanding what's holding the child back is often the first step towards helping them.
How can I encourage a five- or six-year-old to enjoy reading?
Choose illustrated stories, read aloud, explore books about their favourite subjects and enjoy short, relaxed reading moments. At this age, enjoying stories and listening to them is just as important as beginning to learn letters.
How do I motivate a seven- or eight-year-old who refuses to read?
Let them choose books that match their interests, including comics and non-fiction. Continue reading together and avoid making every reading session feel like schoolwork. If their reluctance is linked to persistent difficulties, speak with their teacher.
How long should a child read each day?
There's no ideal amount of time that suits every child. When developing reading for pleasure, a few regular, enjoyable minutes can be a good start. School requirements and any recommendations from teachers should be considered separately.
Do comics count as reading?
Yes. Comics combine words and pictures, allowing children to follow stories, discover vocabulary and enjoy reading. They can be an excellent starting point for children who don't enjoy long passages of text.
Should I make my child finish a book?
When reading for pleasure, it generally isn't necessary. If a story doesn't appeal to them, choosing another book may be more helpful. The aim is to encourage children to return to books willingly, rather than finish every story at all costs.
Can a personalised book encourage a child to read?
For some children, yes. Discovering their own name in a story or imagining themselves as the main character can spark curiosity. The subject, quality of the illustrations and enjoyment of sharing the story are still essential.
Encouraging a love of reading begins with encouraging curiosity
A child who doesn't like reading doesn't necessarily need more books, more exercises or more reminders to try harder.
Sometimes, they simply need the right story, at the right moment, in the right setting.
An adventure that reflects their passions. An illustration that makes them laugh. A character they grow fond of. Or a few precious minutes with a parent.
Every positive moment can help build a more relaxed and enjoyable relationship with books.
And if one day they spontaneously ask, "Can we read another story?", that might be the loveliest sign that their love of reading is beginning to grow.
The world of Zebrabook
What if their next story featured their own name?
From fascinating animals to extraordinary adventures through time, discover personalised children's books that inspire exploration, imagination and wonder. A different way to introduce children to the joy of stories.
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