“Is there a book you might enjoy reading?” Toofer asked.
“Let’s have a look,” said Arthur, heading toward the shelf.
“This looks interesting. The Great Chum Adventures?”
Toofer and Arthur understand something important: there’s a whole world waiting inside the pages of a book! But in today’s fast-paced, digital world, fewer children are developing a love for reading. In fact, research shows that children today read less than previous generations and, sadly, enjoy it less too.
Why does this matter? Because a child who enjoys reading is more likely to build strong reading skills which help them succeed in school and beyond. The key is making reading a fun, engaging, and meaningful part of their lives. Here are some easy and exciting ways to encourage kids to read and to love it!
Read it Again (and Again….and Again!)
Think about your favorite childhood story. Chances are, you read it over and over. And guess what? That’s actually a great way to build reading skills! Encouraging kids to reread their favorite books helps improve their accuracy, fluency, and confidence.
If they love a particular book, let them enjoy it on repeat. Eventually, they’ll start recognizing words faster and reading more smoothly. Repetition strengthens their reading muscles just like practicing a sport or playing an instrument. So go ahead, read The Great Chum Adventures for the tenth night in a row, don’t sigh – celebrate! They’re strengthening their skills and developing a love for books, one familiar page at a time.
Make Reading Real
Books don’t have to stay inside the covers; they can come to life. Connecting reading to real-world experiences makes it more exciting and meaningful for kids.
- Reading a book about basketball? Ask about their favorite player or go outside and shoot some hoops together.
- Does the book talk about flying kites? Make one and see how high it can soar.
- Is the story set in a jungle? Have an animal scavenger hunt in the backyard.
By engaging their senses and tying books to their own lives, kids develop a deeper connection to what they’re reading and they’ll be more eager to pick up the next story!
Read to Each Other
Reading doesn’t have to be a solo adventure! When you read with your child, you’re showing them that books are meant to be shared and enjoyed together.
Try taking turns reading aloud. One page for you and one for them. This helps build confidence as they hear fluent reading and practice their own skills. And don’t forget about older siblings! Kids love reading to younger brothers and sisters and it helps them feel like the expert.
Toofer and The Giblet always tell stories together. Maybe your family can start a new tradition of reading together, too!
Get Creative with Reading
Reading doesn’t have to be just about words on a page. If you child loves are, music, or storytelling, use their interests to make reading even more engaging.
- Draw the Story – After reading a book, encourage your child to illustrate their favorite scene.
- Act It Out – Put on a mini play based on the story, complete with costumes and props.
- Write a Sequel – What happens after the last page? Let your child continue the adventure.
Just like The Giblet loved creating a book for Toofer about their adventures in Nimblewood, kids will feel a sense of pride in making their own stories. Who knows? You might have a future author in the making.
The Power of a Good Book
Books have the power to shape kids into thoughtful, curious, and creative individuals. Encouraging reading from an early age helps them build character, strengthen their imagination, and become lifelong learners.
So, the next time your child hesitates to pick up a book, remind them: inside those pages are new friends, incredible places, and endless adventures just waiting to be discovered.
And if they’re still unsure just ask them the same question Toofer asked Arthur: “Is there a book you might enjoy reading?”
About Dragon Horse Publishing
Dragon Horse Publishing is dedicated to crafting timeless stories that ignite imagination and inspire young readers. As the publisher of the award-winning children’s Toofer and The Giblet series, we bring to life heartwarming adventures filled with friendship, resilience, and discovery. With a classic children’s literature feel, Toofer and The Giblet captures the essence of storytelling that spans generations; engaging young minds while delivering meaningful life lessons. Committed to excellence in storytelling, Dragon Horse Publishing continues to create books that leave a lasting impact on children, parents, and educators alike.
