Make the Most of Reading Time: Expert Tips for Parents

Reading time isn’t just about books—it’s about building a lifelong love of learning. Whether your child is just starting to sound out words or devouring whole chapter books, how you approach reading together can make all the difference. We caught up with Emma Madden, Head of School at Fox Primary School, London, UK, and asked her top tips on how to transform reading from a daily task into a joyful, rewarding experience for your whole family.

Why Reading Together Matters

Reading with your child is one of the most powerful ways to support their language development, boost their vocabulary, and spark their imagination. When children see reading as enjoyable—not just educational—they’re more likely to become confident, curious readers for life.

How to Make Reading Enjoyable and Effective

• Create a Routine: Make reading a natural part of your child’s day. Whether it’s a bedtime story or a few pages after breakfast, consistency helps build a reading habit.
• Choose the Right Books: Pick texts that match your child’s reading level. Books that are too challenging can be discouraging, while those that are too easy may not engage them. Strike a balance to keep them motivated and feeling successful.
• Be a Reading Role Model: Let your child see you reading—of course books, but also magazines, newspapers, and even recipes. When you read, they’ll want to read too. Research shows that popular magazines contain nearly three times as many opportunities for new word learning as prime-time television or everyday conversation. Be sure to read aloud, too! It exposes your child to rich, varied vocabulary they might not encounter elsewhere.
• Focus on Quality, Not Quantity: It’s not about racing through books. Take your time—read a page or two slowly, pausing to discuss interesting words, ideas, or pictures. Deep, thoughtful reading helps your child absorb meaning and develop critical thinking skills. It’s better to truly understand a few pages than to rush through an entire book without understanding.
• Talk About What You Read: Conversation brings stories to life. Ask questions about the plot, characters, or what might happen next. Encourage your child to make predictions or share their opinions. Try making dinner table discussions screen-free—unless someone wants to look up a fun fact or new word. This keeps curiosity alive and helps children connect reading to real life.

Final thoughts

Fostering a love of reading is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child. It supports academic success, strengthens family bonds, and opens doors to new worlds. Plus, teachers will thank you for nurturing a curious, engaged learner!Inspired by advice from Emma Madden, Head of School at Fox Primary School, one of the UK’s top-performing primary schools.