How to Encourage Your Toddler to Read

Reading is one of the most important skills that your toddler can learn. It is a stepping stone that will allow your little one to develop their language, imagination, creativity, and curiosity. Reading can also be a tool that you can use to strengthen the bond between you and your child as you share stories and experiences together.

But how do you encourage your toddler to read, especially if they seem more interested in playing with toys or watching TV? Well, if this is the dilemma you’ve been having, you have come to the right place. Here are some tips that might help:

1. Make reading fun and enjoyable

This might seem obvious, but the first step to encouraging your toddler to read is to make reading a fun and enjoyable exercise. This means choosing books that are appropriate for their age, interest, and level of understanding. Look for books that have colorful illustrations, interactive features, rhymes, or songs.

Be sure to also read with your little one regularly. As you do this, use different voices, expressions, and gestures to bring the story to life. Ask your toddler questions about the characters, the plot, or the pictures. Encourage them to join in by repeating words, making sounds, or pointing at things.

Finally, don’t force your toddler to read or finish a book if they are not in the mood. Instead, follow their lead and let them choose what they want to read and when they want to stop. Praise them for their efforts and enthusiasm.

2. Create a reading routine and environment

Next, you want to create a reading routine and environment. This means setting aside a specific time and place for reading every day. For example, you can read before bedtime, after breakfast, or during a quiet afternoon.

Make sure that the reading area is comfortable, cozy, and free from distractions. You can also create a special reading corner or nook in your home where you can keep a selection of books that your toddler can easily access and browse.

Alternatively, you can also make reading part of your daily activities and outings. For example, you can read signs, labels, menus, or posters when you go out. This way, mundane activities like shopping or taking a walk become an opportunity for learning!

3. Be a role model

Being a role model to your toddler means showing them that you enjoy reading yourself. It means teaching them that reading is valuable and rewarding. You can do this by reading your own books or magazines in front of them or sharing what you have learned or liked from your reading.

You can also be a partner in your toddler’s reading journey by joining them in their exploration and discovery of books. Help your little one choose books that suit their preferences and needs. It’s always an adventure when you introduce them to new genres, authors, or topics that they might not know about.

Most importantly, be there to listen to your toddler’s opinions and feelings about the books they read. Ask them what they liked or disliked about the book, what they learned from it, or how it made them feel. Then share your own thoughts and feelings about the book and have a meaningful conversation with your toddler.

4. Use books as a tool for learning and bonding

Books are not only a source of entertainment and enjoyment, but also a tool for learning and bonding with your toddler. Use books to teach your toddler about various concepts like colors, shapes, numbers, and letters. 

When you read together, you also create shared memories and experiences. You’ll learn to use books to spark conversations, express emotions, or solve problems. To your little one, books will become a source of  comfort, reassurance, and inspiration!

By using books as a tool for learning and bonding, you show your toddler that reading is not only fun and enjoyable, but also meaningful and beneficial.

5. Celebrate your toddler’s achievements

Reading is a skill that takes time and practice to master. It is normal for your toddler to make mistakes, get frustrated, or lose interest at times. However, it is also important to celebrate their reading achievements and milestones, no matter how big or small they are.

You can do this by giving them positive feedback, praise, or encouragement. Be sure to offer rewards like stickers or treats. And show off their progress to your family and friends. 

Another great way to celebrate your toddler’s reading achievements is by creating a reading journal or scrapbook. In it, record the books they have read, the words they have learned, or the stories they have created. Remember to include photos, drawings, or comments from your toddler.

Celebrating your toddler’s achievements is a great way to get your little one to develop a sense of pride and accomplishment in their reading abilities.

6. Expand your toddler’s reading horizons

While it is good to have some favorite books that your toddler loves to read over and over again, it is also important to expand their reading horizons and expose them to a larger variety of books. This will help them develop their vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills. It can also help them discover new interests and hobbies. 

Plan a visit to your local library or bookstore with your toddler and browse through different sections and genres together. Ask for recommendations from librarians, booksellers, or other parents. You can also look for online reviews or lists of the best books for toddlers.

Let your toddler try to read books that are slightly above their level of understanding or difficulty. This will challenge them to learn new words and concepts. While at it, still allow them to read books that are slightly below their level of understanding or difficulty. This will boost their confidence and fluency.

Final Thoughts

Reading is a wonderful activity that can benefit your toddler in many ways. It can help them develop their language, imagination, creativity, and curiosity. It can also help them learn about the world and themselves. Most importantly, it is a great way to bond with your toddler and create lasting memories.

That said, reading is not always easy or natural for toddlers. They may face challenges that may prevent them from enjoying it. That’s why you need to encourage your little one and support them in their reading journey.

You can do this by following the tips and tricks outlined above. Before you know it, you will have an avid reader on your hands! Happy reading!