READING is one of the most essential skills a child can develop. It underpins learning in almost every subject and shapes how we understand the world around us.
For this reason, parents — and society more broadly — often hope that children will not only learn to read, but also develop a genuine enjoyment of it.
The question, however, is how to nurture that joy.
The love of reading is usually formed very early in life.
By the time children reach primary school, they often already see reading either as something enjoyable or as a difficult chore.
This means that the foundations for positive reading experiences need to begin from birth, long before formal schooling starts.
When children are very young, they naturally seek closeness and attention from their parents.
They are often willing to take part in shared activities simply to spend time together, and reading can become one of the most powerful of these.
Establishing a daily reading routine — particularly in the evening before bedtime — can help embed reading as a comforting and familiar part of life.
For example, families might set a simple routine such as: “If you want story time, you need to be ready for bed by 7.30 pm.”
This might include putting on pyjamas and brushing teeth on time.
If children are late getting ready, the reading time can be shortened.
Because children value time with their parents, they quickly learn to prioritise their evening routine.
This approach helps children associate reading with positive emotions — calmness, closeness, and attention.
Over time, reading becomes linked in their minds with comfort and security, rather than obligation.
This emotional connection is a key step in developing lifelong reading habits.
As children grow older and begin reading independently, it is still important to maintain shared reading experiences.
Parents might take turns reading aloud with their child or continue reading together for part of the time.
Even when children are reading alone, it can be powerful for a parent to sit nearby and read their own book.
This shows that reading is not just a school task, but something adults genuinely enjoy as well.
Modelling this behaviour reinforces the idea that reading is a normal, pleasurable part of everyday life.
It also helps children see reading as a quiet but rewarding activity, rather than something isolated or imposed.
Most importantly, shared reading time strengthens family bonds.
It creates a regular moment of connection in a busy day and gives children both emotional security and intellectual stimulation.
When reading becomes part of family life in this way, children are far more likely to develop a lasting love of books — and carry that habit with them into adulthood.
