10 Effective Ways to Motivate Struggling Readers to Enjoy Reading
When to Read
1. Make Time for Reading
Make reading a priority instead of squeezing it into an already stressful schedule. Reading should feel calm, relaxing, and enjoyable—not like another chore. Consistent daily practice, even just 15–20 minutes or a one-page story, can make a big difference.
Celebrate progress with stickers, reading logs, or small rewards to build motivation, confidence, and positive reading habits.
Where to Read
2. Create a Cozy Reading Space
A cozy and inviting reading nook can make reading feel special and enjoyable. Let your child help decorate the space to create a sense of ownership and excitement.
Ideas include:
Pillows or blankets
Soft lighting
A basket of favorite books
Quiet background music
A comfortable environment encourages children to settle in and enjoy reading.
3. Keep Books Easily Available
Children are more likely to read when books are easy to access and part of everyday life.
Keep reading materials:
In book baskets around the house
In the car
Near the bed for bedtime reading
Readily available through your local library
Easy access encourages spontaneous reading and helps children see reading as a natural daily activity.
4. Choose Books at the Right Level
If your child misses more than five words on a page, the book may be too difficult. Books at the right level help build fluency, confidence, and enjoyment.
Great options include:
Graphic novels for hesitant readers
Comic books for visual learners
Short stories or highly illustrated books
Successful reading experiences motivate children to keep reading.
What to Read
5. Offer a Variety of Reading Materials
Not all reading has to be traditional chapter books. Many reluctant readers become more engaged when given choices and variety.
Try:
Graphic novels
Joke books
Magazines
Cookbooks
Comics
How-to books
Biographies
Sports articles
Providing choices helps children discover topics and formats they truly enjoy.
Who to Read With
6. Read Aloud Together
Children of all ages benefit from hearing fluent, expressive reading. Audiobooks are also excellent for reluctant readers.
Let your child choose engaging books and:
Read with expression and purpose
Use funny voices for characters
Pause to discuss the story and check comprehension
Ask prediction questions
Use finger puppets or story acting
Use humor to spark interest and laughter
Shared reading creates positive memories and strengthens comprehension skills.
7. Use Buddy Reading
Buddy reading helps struggling readers feel supported and less anxious.
Try:
Taking turns reading paragraphs
Reading aloud together
Echo reading:
You read first
Your child repeats
These strategies improve fluency, accuracy, and confidence.
8. Let Your Child Read to Younger Siblings
Easy picture books provide excellent practice without pressure. Reading to younger siblings or family members helps children feel capable, confident, and successful while strengthening their reading fluency.
How to Read
9. Model a Love of Reading
Children notice what adults value. When they see you enjoying reading, they are more likely to develop positive reading habits themselves.
Let your child see you:
Reading books or magazines
Reading recipes or instructions
Visiting the library
Talking excitedly about stories
Making real-life connections to books and lessons learned
Read with purposes
Your enthusiasm for reading can inspire a lifelong love of books in your child.
10. Most Important: Protect Your Child’s Confidence
Avoid correcting every mistake, as too many interruptions can increase anxiety and frustration.
Instead:
Give wait time
Encourage self-correction
Praise effort and persistence
Helpful phrases include:
“You kept going even when it was tricky.”
“I like how you tried that again.”
“You’re becoming a stronger reader.”
Children improve most when they feel safe, encouraged, and successful. A confident child who enjoys reading practice is far more likely to become a lifelong reader.