Guide to Encouraging Reading for Pleasure at Home
Reading is one of the most valuable skills a child can develop, unlocking academic success, creativity, lifelong learning, and overall well-being. It enhances emotional intelligence, reduces stress, fosters empathy, and provides a sense of relaxation and escapism, all of which contribute to a child's mental and emotional health.
As educators, we know that fostering a love of reading extends beyond the classroom. But if reading at home feels more like a battle than a joy, something needs to change. Reading isn’t just a skill — it’s an experience children need to want to engage with on their own terms. For struggling or reluctant readers, finding books that entice and excite them can be the key to unlocking their curiosity and confidence.
The Power of Sending Home the Right Books
One of the most effective ways to encourage reading at home is by ensuring children have access to the right books — stories that captivate, engage, and inspire. When children have books that resonate with them, they are far more likely to pick them up, explore, and develop a lifelong love of reading.
At School Bargain Bookshop, we provide high-quality books for primary and secondary school children at heavily discounted prices, making it easier for schools to invest in books that will spark joy in reading. Whether it’s books aligned with the Accelerated Reader™ programme, Hi-Lo collections for struggling readers, or exciting titles to hook reluctant readers, we offer something for every young reader.
Our aim is to bring you high-quality books at an affordable price, and we believe these books should be irresistible — so compelling that even the most reluctant reader can’t help but turn the pages. The right book isn’t just read; it’s devoured, like the last bite of a delicious dessert. There’s a perfect book for everyone, and finding it is all about providing a diverse library that supports a wide range of interests and abilities, then giving children the freedom to explore, discover what excites them, and build their own reading journey.
Learn more about the AR programme in our Guide to Accelerated Reader™. Or explore our Guide to Supporting Struggling and Reluctant Readers to discover strategies for fostering a lifelong love of reading for every child.
Know what you’re looking for? Jump straight to these collections using the links below:
Supporting Families to Foster a Love of Reading
Educators play a crucial role in guiding families toward creating positive reading experiences at home. By sending home engaging books and offering simple, practical advice, we can help parents turn reading into an enjoyable part of daily life rather than a chore.
Here are five key tips educators can share with parents to help encourage reading at home:
1. Create a Reading-Friendly Home Environment
Encourage families to create cosy, inviting reading spaces at home. A comfortable chair, good lighting, and easy access to books can make a big difference in helping children associate reading with relaxation and enjoyment.
2. Let Children Choose Their Own Books
Giving children the freedom to choose books that interest them increases their motivation to read. Providing a variety of genres — fiction, non-fiction, comics, graphic novels — helps every reader find something they love.
3. Incorporate Reading into Everyday Life
Reading doesn’t have to be limited to books. Encourage parents to weave reading into daily routines — menus, signs, magazines, and even recipes can all be fun ways to practice reading skills naturally.
4. Make Reading a Shared Experience
Encourage parents to read with their children, discussing books together to build comprehension and interest. Asking open-ended questions like, “What do you think will happen next?” encourages deeper engagement. Or take off the pressure by taking it in turns to read a page.
5. Be a Reading Role Model
Children who see adults enjoying books are more likely to develop a love of reading themselves. Encourage parents to read in front of their children and share their own enthusiasm for books.
Find Affordable Books to Support Every Reader
At School Bargain Bookshop, we believe that every child deserves access to exciting, high-quality books that will fuel their imagination and love for reading. That’s why we offer significant discounts on books for primary and secondary students, ensuring schools can provide books for reading in school and at home that engage and inspire all readers.
Boost your reading community — browse our latest collections and start building a culture of reading at home today!
Shop Great Value Collections for Primary Schools
Shop Great Value Collections for Secondary Schools
You Might Also Like: Our Guide to Book Bands — Learn how book bands can help young readers stay challenged, engaged, and motivated to read more.
