Summer break has a wonderful way of shifting our family rhythms. Longer days, later bedtimes, more time outdoors—and often, less time spent with a good book. If you’ve noticed your child’s reading habits have slowed down over the summer, you’re not alone.
The good news? A new school year is the perfect opportunity to reset and recharge your child’s love of reading. Whether your child is a reluctant reader or an enthusiastic bookworm, here are seven simple strategies to help ease back into a joyful reading routine, without turning it into a chore.
1. Create a Cozy Reading Corner
Kids are drawn to spaces that feel special. Try designating a reading space in your home—somewhere inviting, free of distractions, and stocked with books that reflect your child’s interests and identity.
It doesn’t have to be fancy: a soft blanket, some pillows from 5 Below, or a beanbag chair can instantly make reading time feel like an adventure. Let your child help decorate it with their favorite stuffed animal, a small lamp, or even a “Reading in Progress” sign.
2. Let Them Pick the Books
As grown-ups, we sometimes try to steer kids toward what we think they “should” be reading. But choice is a powerful motivator. Let your child pick their own books, even if it means silly graphic novels or rereading an old favorite for the tenth time. If they want to get book 297 of Dogman, by all means, let them. (Don't yuck their yum). Giving them ownership over what they read helps build confidence and excitement.
Tip: If you’re unsure where to start, explore our Back-to-School Collection, curated to help kids see themselves in the pages.
3. Weave Reading Into Everyday Routines
Reading doesn’t have to be a separate event on the calendar. Instead of trying to squeeze reading into an already full schedule, look for small moments you can reclaim:
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Bedtime wind-down: Swap a show for 15 minutes of reading.
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Morning boost: Start the day with an affirmation book or poem.
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After-school reset: Use stories as a gentle way to decompress.
When reading is part of everyday moments, it feels more natural and less like homework.(Nobody likes homework-not them or us.)
Remember: it’s about consistency, not perfection.
4. Make Reading Social
Books don’t have to be a solitary activity.. Pair reading with connection. Invite a friend over for a mini book club, ask grandparents to read aloud over a video call, or have siblings take turns performing parts of a story. Social reading is not only fun, but it also helps kids practice sharing ideas and builds their confidence in talking about what they’ve read.
Consider swapping books with neighbors or friends to keep things fresh and build a sense of community around reading.
5. Celebrate Small Wins
Children love positive reinforcement. Every milestone, finishing a chapter, trying a new genre, or reading for 10 minutes, deserves a little celebration. You can make a reading chart, hand out fun stickers, or just share words of praise. When kids see reading milestones recognized, they feel motivated to keep going.
You could even establish a family ritual, like Friday night “Book & Treat,” where everyone reads together and enjoys a snack. The goal is to acknowledge and celebrate the reading behaviors, so don't feel like you have to go crazy with prizes.
6. Use Book Bundles for Ease and Intention
If you feel overwhelmed searching for the right books, themed bundles can make it easy to stay intentional. Bundles organized by age, theme, and identity help ensure your child is reading stories that nurture empathy, self-love, and curiosity.
Check out our Monthly Subscription Boxes, which take the guesswork out of finding inclusive, engaging books your child will love.
7. Be the Model
The most powerful reading role model is you. When your child sees you enjoying a novel, flipping through a magazine, or listening to an audiobook, they understand that reading isn’t just homework—it’s a lifelong habit. And you need your own wind down. Win-Win!
Make it visible: keep your own reading material around the house and talk about what you’re learning or loving in your books.
Resetting your child’s reading routine doesn’t require big changes—just small, consistent steps and a little creativity. By building in choice, routine, and connection, you’re helping your child start the school year with confidence and curiosity.
Looking for diverse, affirming stories to kickstart the season?
Explore our curated collections designed to make reading feel like a reward, not a struggle.
👉🏾 Browse our Back-to-School Collection Now!
