Children who read for pleasure are not only enjoying stories — they’re also naturally learning how language works. From observing punctuation in dialogue to understanding sentence structure, reading lays the foundation for writing and overall language proficiency. Unsurprisingly, avid readers often grow into confident, skilled writers.
Establish a Daily Reading Time
Extensive reading — often referred to as reading-for-pleasure — dramatically increases a child’s exposure to written language. This is especially important when learning a second (or even third) language, where classroom time alone is rarely sufficient for fluency.
Parental support is essential. Encouraging daily reading at home builds valuable habits. With younger children, this might involve bedtime stories with a parent or grandparent. Older children may benefit from a designated reading period each evening. Initially, introducing incentives can help motivate a child to form consistent reading habits.
Make Book Shopping Fun
Let children explore their literary interests by involving them in book shopping. Consider giving them a small allowance specifically for buying storybooks. Creating a mini home library — possibly in their own bedroom — gives them ownership over the reading experience and fosters independence.
Choose Books That Match Reading Level
Select books that match your child’s current reading ability. Books that are too difficult can discourage reading, while the right level will keep them engaged. A good rule of thumb: the child should be able to understand the story without needing a dictionary — unfamiliar words should be easy to guess from context.
Many bookstores offer “Graded Readers,” which are books written for different proficiency levels. Well-known publishers include Macmillan, Cambridge University Press, McGraw-Hill Asia, Oxford University Press, and Pearson English Readers. These books are often labeled by difficulty (e.g., Level 1–6 or Beginner to Advanced).
Suggested Titles from Graded Readers
- A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
- 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
- King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table
- The Railway Children
- Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
- Diary of a Young Girl
- Round the World in Eighty Days
- Great Expectations
Final Thoughts
Encouraging reading at home isn’t just about literacy — it’s about nurturing imagination, curiosity, and empathy. By setting aside time, creating a positive reading environment, and offering the right books, families can turn reading into a rewarding and lifelong habit.