Read to them! That simple, that easy, that powerful. 

Help your child love reading by making books an enjoyable and meaningful part of daily life. As parents, you are your child’s first and most influential teachers, and one of the most powerful gifts you can give them is a love for reading. When children develop positive feelings toward books early on, they are more likely to become strong, confident readers who succeed in school and beyond.

Why Reading Together Helps Your Child Love Reading

Children learn to read by being read to. Research shows that kids who regularly share books with their parents are more likely to enjoy reading themselves. This joy leads them to read more often, which in turn strengthens their skills. A child who loves reading and reads well finds learning in every subject much easier.

Beyond academics, reading together creates lasting emotional connections. Snuggling up with a book provides warmth and comfort while also building vocabulary, strengthening listening skills, and introducing children to new ideas and worlds.

For additional research-based insights on early literacy, you can visit Reading Rockets.

Daily Habits to Help Your Child Love Reading

Making reading part of your everyday routine shows your child that books are important. Even just one story before bed can create a sense of rhythm and consistency. Over time, this routine builds an association between reading and comfort, which encourages a lifelong love for books.

At First Congregational Preschool, we encourage families to mirror the same playful and meaningful reading experiences children enjoy in our classrooms. Pairing home and school efforts makes literacy development stronger and more joyful.

Create a Home Library

Help your child love reading by giving them ownership of their books. When children have their own collection, they see books as treasures. Encourage them to organize a small bookshelf, rotate favorites, and choose what they want to read. Books also make excellent gifts.  When friends or family ask for suggestions, recommend adding to your child’s growing library.

Let Your Child Take the Lead

Choice matters. Let your child pick which story they want to read, even if it’s the same favorite night after night. Following their lead shows that reading is not just an assignment but a source of joy. Cuddling up together while reading also strengthens your bond and reinforces the idea that books are something special.

Setting the Stage for Future Success

When you help your child love reading, you’re doing much more than teaching a skill – you are laying the foundation for school readiness and lifelong learning. The pleasure children feel around books translates into confidence, curiosity, and success in the classroom.

At First Congregational Preschool, we believe every story shared brings children one step closer to becoming enthusiastic readers and learners.