Fewer children today are growing up with a love of books. In the UK, reading for pleasure among children has fallen to its lowest level in 20 years, prompting the government and literacy organisations to declare 2026 a national year of reading. The goal is simple: encourage reading by meeting children where their interests already lie.
For parents and carers, one of the most effective ways to nurture a love of reading is by sharing books together—whether or not a child is an eager reader.
Why shared reading matters
Reading with children from an early age has powerful benefits. It helps protect them from the effects of social inequality, supports early development, and improves school performance. Children who are read to regularly tend to develop language skills faster, build stronger vocabularies, and become more confident readers later in life.
Beyond academics, shared reading strengthens emotional bonds. Time spent reading together creates closeness, trust, and a sense of security. Research from children’s charity The BookTrust shows that these moments help build early attachment between children and caregivers—an essential foundation for healthy emotional development.
Building connection through books
When adults read responsively with children—listening, reacting, and showing interest—children learn that their thoughts and feelings matter. Simple interactions, such as responding enthusiastically when a child points at a picture, help children feel supported and understood.
Shared reading also encourages calm and focus, helping both children and adults find moments of peace in busy daily routines.
Making shared reading enjoyable
To get the most out of reading together:
Create a calm, cosy environment with minimal distractions
Put away digital devices and choose soft lighting
Sit somewhere comfortable, such as a bed or floor with cushions
You don’t need to read every word. For younger children, talking about pictures, making up stories, or role-playing can be just as valuable as reading the text.
As children grow, give them choice. Let them pick what they want to read—whether it’s storybooks, comics, magazines, or even newspapers. Reading doesn’t always have to involve traditional books; it can include anything that sparks curiosity.
Reading beyond bedtime
While bedtime is a popular reading time, shared reading can happen anytime—early mornings, during lunch, or quiet moments in the day. The key is consistency and enjoyment, not rigid schedules.
A shared joy
Shared reading offers families and communities a chance to reconnect through stories. More than teaching literacy, it nurtures relationships, wellbeing, and a lifelong love of reading—one page at a time.
