In 2025, encouraging kids to pick up books instead of spending time on their phones can be an enjoyable challenge. Here are some strategies to help foster a love of reading and get them more engaged with stories and activities on paper (or e-readers):
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Encouraging kids to pick up books in 2025 |
1. Set Reading & Activity Goals & Rewards
- How it works: Create a
reading, writing or coloring challenge where your kids earn small rewards or gifts for every
chapter or activity in book they complete. You could even set a monthly book target
with a special reward at the end.
- Tip: Make sure
the rewards are tied to something they love, like a fun day out or a new
book.
2. Create a Cozy Reading and Activity Space
- How
it works: Designate a
spot in the house as a “Reading Nook” or a cozy corner. Make it a special,
screen-free zone with comfortable chairs, blankets, and good lighting.
Enhance this space with Coloring books, Activity books & Story books, so they can pick a book
of their interests.
- Tip: Let your
kids help design the space, making them feel ownership over the space.
Reading Nook
3. Introduce Books with Interactive &
Engaging Activities & Stories
- How it works: Opt for books that feature activities, e.g. coloring & puzzle books, adventure, fantasy, or mysteries—genres that are often more captivating than a phone. Coloring books and activity books keep them busy for a long time and story books keep kids coming back for more as they want to find out what happens next.
Fun Activities for Children
4. Make Reading Social
- How it works: Start a
family book club or a reading group with friends. Discussing stories,
characters, interests and events can be exciting and will give kids
something to look forward to.
- Set aside time each day or week
for family read-aloud sessions. Whether it’s a bedtime ritual or
after-dinner activity, this can become a bonding experience that makes reading
feel like a fun, family event.
- Tip: Choose
books with themes that are relevant to your child’s interests. You could
also host virtual or in-person book discussions to share thoughts and
opinions on stories.
- How it works: Giving
books as birthday, holiday, or special occasion gifts can help instill a
love for reading. Let them choose books themselves, allowing them to
explore different genres and discover what excites them.
Best gifts for children
6. Use Technology to Encourage Reading
- How it works: If your
kids are already into screens, consider incorporating technology to
support reading. E-readers like Kindle or apps like Audible can offer
access to books while still providing a screen experience that isn't
social media-focused.
- Tip: You could
also set reading goals using a screen, like reading a chapter a day or
using an audio book alongside physical books.
7. Visit the Library, Bookstore or Events
- How it works: Take
regular trips to the library or bookstore. Let your kids explore the
shelves and pick books that catch their interest. Many libraries also
offer fun reading challenges and events that encourage kids to read more.
- Participate in events like World Book Day, reading marathons, or themed book nights. Kids will be more
excited to read if they feel it's part of a larger community or event.
- Tip: Set aside
a specific day of the week to make it a fun outing, giving your child the
freedom to choose what they want to read.
encouraging kids to pick up books
8. Books with Illustrations and Graphic Novels
- How it works: Graphic
novels and illustrated books are a great way to transition reluctant
readers away from screens. The visuals often make the stories more dynamic
and engaging.
By encouraging kids to pick up books, making this task an enjoyable, social, and rewarding activity, kids will be more likely to trade their phones for books, diving into new worlds and ideas. The key is to make books exciting and integrated into their everyday lives.
