As parents, we all want to encourage our children to learn to read and not only that, but to learn to love to read. Is it something which can be taught? After all, not all adults attack books with the same passion as one another do we?

There are those of us who are never without a book and those of us who barely pick up a short story. What is it which makes some of us readers and some not? The answer lies not only in our abilities but in our early experiences.

All children are born with an innate thirst for story. It’s part of human nature. If children are introduced to reading in a wholly positive fashion, then even if the skills don’t come naturally, they will always have a love for literature.

This means that even children with learning challenges such as dyslexia can come to love reading and carry that passion through into adulthood. Understanding the impact of dyslexia on children extends beyond their immediate reading abilities to influence their broader relationship with literature and learning. Early and positive exposure to stories can mitigate some of these challenges, fostering a love for reading despite the difficulties dyslexia presents. With the right support, encouragement, and resources tailored to their unique learning needs, children with dyslexia can thrive, turning a potential barrier into a gateway for lifelong learning and enjoyment of literature.

Begin early and keep going

From birth, babies are interested in hearing the voices of their parents or caregivers. They’re comforted by them and amused by them. Start a routine of story time as soon as you can. Just because your baby doesn’t know what you’re talking about, it doesn’t follow that they won’t enjoy being read to!

All babies love to hear comforting voices, soft speech, rhythmic words – they don’t tire of it either. Your baby will quickly begin to associate reading and books with positive feelings and if you continue the routine, they will soon follow on as you read and point to the words and pictures on the pages.

Carry on the routine of reading, especially at bedtime when your child is most relaxed. But don’t stop there! Even older children love to share stories and you can enjoy them together for quite some time.

Visit the bookshop and the library

Whilst ordering books online might be easier, buying them in person is a whole lot more fun. Handling, looking, touching – children love to feel and see what they’re about to enjoy. All children enjoy visiting the bookshop and if you make it into an occasion, they’ll be begging to visit more often.

There are many programmes and clubs devoted to developing reading skills for children and you will probably benefit from joining one. Many offer discounts on books in addition to invaluable advice regarding tricky cases! Your child will enjoy a lifetime of literature if you start them on the right track at an early age.

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.