FAQs
“My child used to love reading at primary school but they just don’t seem to be interested in it anymore. At best they read the same books they’ve read before- have you any recommendations?”
Our English Team get asked this all the time, usually at Parents’ Evenings, when they may not have the time to suggest some perfect books for your child. Disinterest often comes from not knowing what to read next, or how to choose books which reflect their age or new interests. Encourage your child to visit the links listed on the 'How can I encourage and support reading at home?' page as they have an abundance of brilliant books categorised by age, interest and theme. There is bound to be something that will engage and inspire your child to get stuck into reading again!
“My child becomes disinterested in a book quickly. I think maybe they are not quite sure what their book tastes are, can you help?”
Often children would really benefit from a ‘try before you buy’ arrangement. You can select the option of ‘Read an extract’ on 1000s of titles on the website linked below, all organised into age range. This way your child can get a taster for what the book is like and what could fire their interest, before they decide to borrow or purchase a copy.
“I’m trying to balance my older and younger children’s interests and would love to support both in their reading- any ideas?”
Encourage older siblings to read to younger ones. Not only does this provide some valuable time off for mums, dads and carers, but younger children will follow their example in practising their reading later. It’s also brilliant for older children to still read aloud to their parents/carers/extended family as it helps to develop their fluency and intonation.
“My child prefers non-fiction- what can they read?”
Does your son or daughter enjoy discussing topical issues or do they have an interest in the world around them? Guide them to the first newspaper aimed at engaging children and young people in current affairs in an accessible way. (Contains a subscription fee from £1).
“My child won’t touch a book but they love comics- is this still supporting their literacy needs?”
A fantastic page on the benefits of comic books on a child’s literacy with lots of links to supporting information, comics and graphic novels.
“I think my child may be experiencing some barriers to reading- how can I support this at home?”
Alex Quigley offers some accessible information and helpful solutions to the 4 main barriers to reading.
If you wish to discuss this further then contact the school and we will be happy to support you and your child.
“We try our best at home but we have another child/children and along with work, homework, revision, after school clubs and downtime it’s hard to fit everything in!”
Sometimes life gets really busy! It’s completely normal to feel the pressures of feeling like you have to juggle everything, the most important thing is to never make reading feel like a chore or ‘forced’ upon your children.
The best thing is to encourage and support it when and where you can. Genuine interest in conversations about reading with your children can foster an interest in it which can be built upon over time. Reading just 15 minutes to 30 minutes a day can be hugely beneficial but even this can be built up to over time, especially if your child has previously fallen out of love with reading.
It’s also about developing your children to be independent in their choices too so never feel that it is solely down to you! Finding the perfect book that interests your child can be the most powerful incentive for them to prioritise reading independently and reach for it when they have time.