Helping kids become strong readers starts way before school begins. From singing silly songs to pointing out letters on cereal boxes, there are so many fun ways families can build literacy skills every day. Here's a closer look at the small, evidence-based habits that make a big impact.
Start Early & Often
You don’t need to wait for preschool or kindergarten to begin. In fact, reading aloud from birth has been shown to boost vocabulary and comprehension. Babies may not understand the words, but they love the rhythm, tone, and connection. Even letting toddlers explore cloth or board books builds early print awareness.
Why it works: It strengthens brain pathways linked to language, builds curiosity, and creates a bond between caregiver and child.
Make Reading a Daily Ritual
Establishing a reading routine doesn’t have to be complicated—just consistent. Whether it's before bed, after lunch, or part of your wind-down routine, making reading part of your family's daily rhythm pays off.
Why it works: Regular exposure boosts vocabulary, comprehension, and reading confidence. Plus, it showcases reading as a normal and enjoyable part of life.
Get Interactive
Turn storytime into a conversation. Ask your child what they think will happen next, point to words and pictures, or even act out scenes together. Let them turn pages, repeat phrases, or "read" parts they remember.
Why it works: Interactive reading builds comprehension, develops narrative skills, and keeps kids engaged.
Play with Sounds
Rhyming games, silly songs, and tongue twisters may seem like just fun, but they’re actually powerful learning tools. Singing the alphabet, clapping syllables, and identifying beginning sounds all boost phonological awareness.
Why it works: These playful moments build the foundation for decoding words later on—one of the biggest predictors of reading success.
Spot Print Everywhere
Reading isn’t just for books! Street signs, grocery lists, labels, restaurant menus—all are opportunities to help kids connect letters and words to meaning. Label items around your house or make a game of finding letters when you're out and about.
Why it works: It helps kids understand that print is all around them—and it carries meaning.
Keep It Joyful & Child-Led
Let children pick their books, even if it means reading the same one again and again. Use silly voices, be expressive, and follow their lead. The more positive and fun the experience, the more they’ll want to do it.
Why it works: Kids are more likely to engage and stick with reading when it's associated with joy, not pressure.
Create Access
Books should be within reach—on low shelves, in baskets, or as part of play areas. Rotate books to keep things fresh, and include a mix of favorites and new discoveries. Make visits to the library part of your regular routine.
Why it works: Easy access to books leads to more frequent reading, which builds fluency, confidence, and vocabulary.
Talk, Talk, Talk
The more you talk to your child, the more words they’ll learn. Describe what you’re doing, ask questions, explain new vocabulary. Mealtime, bath time, or walks are great moments for rich, back-and-forth conversation.
Why it works: Talking builds background knowledge and vocabulary, both of which are crucial for reading comprehension later on.
In Summary:
You don’t need to be a teacher to raise a reader. With warmth, intention, and a little creativity, your everyday routines can become powerful learning moments. Start small, stay consistent, and most importantly—make it fun!