- Readers and books
10 reasons your child won’t read (and what to do about it)
This year’s National Year of Reading is all about helping children discover the joy of books. But if your child is reluctant to read, you’re definitely not alone.
Many children go through phases where reading doesn’t feel exciting. Sometimes they’re overwhelmed by long books, sometimes they’d rather play games, and sometimes they just haven’t found the right story yet.
The good news? Often one brilliant book is all it takes to turn a reluctant reader into an enthusiastic one.
Here are 10 things children might say about reading, and simple ways you can help them find the book that finally clicks.
1. “My eyes are tired already. Where are the dinosaurs?”
Some children find long blocks of text overwhelming, especially when they’re still building reading confidence.
Books filled with illustrations, diagrams, and bite-sized information can make reading feel much more approachable. Picture-heavy books and graphic-style layouts help children stay engaged and turn pages without feeling intimidated.
If your child loves dinosaurs, animals, space or history, try starting with visual nonfiction books that combine facts, illustrations and fun storytelling.
Here are some dinosaur books packed with pictures, fun facts and prehistoric adventures:
2. “Reading feels like homework.”
If reading only happens during school time, it can start to feel like another task to complete rather than something fun.
Many children who love stories begin to lose interest when reading becomes associated with homework.
The solution? Offer books that feel completely different from school reading. Funny stories, exciting adventures, or laugh-out-loud series that make reading feel like entertainment again.
Here are some exciting books that remind children reading can be fun:
3. “I don’t know which book to choose.”
Sometimes the problem isn’t reading, it’s too much choice.
Libraries and bookshops are full of possibilities, but that can feel overwhelming for children who are still figuring out what they enjoy. It’s a bit like scrolling through endless films on Netflix and not knowing where to start!
Beginner-friendly books, short chapters, or series with familiar characters can make choosing easier and help children build reading confidence.
Here are some brilliant books that are easy for new readers to jump into:
4. “I don’t see anyone like me in the story.”
Children often connect more deeply with books when they recognise something familiar in the characters, families or experiences.
Stories that reflect a variety of cultures, backgrounds, interests and family structures can help children feel seen and included, which makes reading more meaningful.
Here are some books featuring a wide range of characters and experiences:
5. “My tablet has dragons, explosions and dancing cats. Why would I read?”
Screens are fast, colourful and interactive, but books can be just as imaginative and exciting.
Fantasy worlds, mysteries, dragons, magical creatures and thrilling adventures can capture the same sense of excitement children love in games and films.
The key is choosing stories that feel fast-paced and immersive.
Here are some adventure gamebooks packed with excitement:
6. “I’d rather play.”
For some children, sitting still with a traditional book simply doesn’t feel as fun as doing something with their hands.
The good news is that reading doesn’t always have to mean long stories. Activity books, puzzle books, sticker books and craft guides can all help children develop reading skills while they play.
Instructions, captions and prompts encourage children to read naturally as they explore.
Here are some activity books, puzzles and crafts that make books feel like playtime:
7. “I would read… just not that book.”
Sometimes the problem isn’t reading itself, it’s simply that the book doesn’t match the child’s interests.
When children are allowed to choose their own books, they’re much more likely to feel motivated to read. Popular series, genres and themes can help narrow down the search.
Once children find characters or worlds they love, they often want to keep reading the entire series.
Here are some popular books children love choosing for themselves:
8. “I only like reading about things I like.”
When a book connects with a child’s interests, reading suddenly becomes much more exciting.
Whether they love football, animals, science, art, coding, space or dinosaurs, books about their favourite topics can spark curiosity and keep them turning pages.
Here are some books based on popular hobbies and interests:
9. “The book is too hard.”
Reading confidence grows gradually. If a book feels too difficult, children can quickly lose motivation.
Short chapters, supportive illustrations, and carefully structured text can help children build fluency and confidence step by step.
Choosing books that match a child’s reading level and interests can make a huge difference.
Shop by your child's reading level:
10. “Can’t you read it to me instead?”
Many children fall in love with stories long before they’re ready to read independently.
Reading together is one of the most powerful ways to build a love of books. Shared stories create positive associations with reading and help children develop language, imagination and listening skills.
Bedtime stories, funny picture books and exciting chapter books are perfect for reading aloud together.
Here are some brilliant storybooks that are ideal for sharing:
