Reading together does not need to become another performance target. Start with something your child is interested in and a moment when neither of you is rushing. A short shared page can be enough for today.
Let them choose and reread
Offer a choice between two books, a comic, a picture book or something linked to their interests. It is fine to return to a favourite. You can talk about the pictures, take turns or simply read aloud while they listen. There is no need to turn every page into a test.
Notice useful words together
On a walk, you might read a shop sign or look for the name of the road you are visiting. At home, read an age-appropriate recipe step together. The adult remains responsible for road safety, food allergens, cooking and understanding warning signs. A child does not have to read a hazard notice correctly to be kept safe.
Make different formats welcome
Listening to an audiobook together, using a larger-print book or choosing a shorter passage can give you another way into a story. Ask your library or school about suitable formats and support. If reading is consistently difficult or distressing, speak to your child’s teacher rather than assuming more pressure is the answer.
Borrow before buying
The GOV.UK library finder covers England and Wales. In Scotland, check your local council’s library service; in Northern Ireland, look for Libraries NI. Ask your service about children’s books, audiobooks, accessible formats and events available locally.
Keep it comfortable
If your child loses interest, stop or change activity. Read at a time that fits your family rather than insisting it must happen at bedtime. An illustrative routine is choosing tomorrow’s book together after tea and sharing a few pages when you have a quiet moment.
For a seasonal version, see the book advent idea. For other ways to spend time together, browse bonding activities and Dad Tips.
Updated 10 September 2026.
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