Keep the Magic of Reading Alive This Summer: Tips to Inspire Young Bookworms

Summer is here, and while the long days are perfect for outdoor adventures and lazy afternoons, they're also an incredible opportunity to nurture your child's love of reading.

At Little Book Factory, we believe that summer reading doesn't have to feel like homework—it should be an exciting journey that keeps young minds engaged and imaginations soaring. But we also know that that it can feel like another challenge, especially if you have a reluctant reader so here are some tips that we hope will inspire you all! 

 

Create a Cosy Reading Nook

Transform a corner of your home into a magical reading space. Add soft cushions, a basket of favourite books, and perhaps some fairy lights or a reading lamp. When children have a special place dedicated to reading, it becomes more inviting and feels like their own literary sanctuary.

Let Them Choose Their Own Adventures

Nothing kills reading enthusiasm faster than forcing children to read books they're not interested in. Take regular trips to the library or bookstore and let your child explore different genres, series, and topics that spark their curiosity. Whether they're drawn to graphic novels, mystery series, or books about dinosaurs, following their interests is key to maintaining engagement.

Set Up a Family Reading Time

Make reading a social activity by establishing daily family reading time. Even 20-30 minutes where everyone in the family reads their own book creates a wonderful shared experience. Children love to mimic their parents, and seeing you enjoy reading reinforces that books are valuable and enjoyable.*

*This comes with a caveat - most of us are juggling and just about coping with summer holidays so do not feel pressured by this one! If you can, great, if not, don't worry! 

Try Audio Books for Variety

Audio books are perfect for car trips, quiet time, or when children's eyes need a break from screens and pages. They're also excellent for reluctant readers or children who are still developing their reading skills but can understand more complex stories when they hear them.

Take Part in the Summer Reading Challenge

The 2025 Summer Reading Challenge theme is "Story Garden – Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors," created by The Reading Agency and in partnership with libraries across the UK. The challenge runs from 5th July - 13th August and it's FREE for children of all ages.

Children are encouraged to read six or more books during the summer holidays, collecting stickers, rewards, and a certificate along the way so it's extra fun!

Connect Books to Real Experiences

Bring stories to life by connecting them to real-world activities. Read about ocean creatures before a beach trip, explore books about different cultures before trying new foods, or read adventure stories before a camping trip. These connections make reading feel more relevant and exciting.

Don't Worry About Reading Levels

Summer is the perfect time to let children explore books both above and below their typical reading level. Let them revisit beloved picture books for comfort reading, and don't discourage them from attempting more challenging books if they're interested—they'll naturally find their way to what works for them.

Read Together and Discuss

Don't assume that once children can read independently, your job is done. Continue reading aloud to them, and engage in conversations about the books they're reading. Ask open-ended questions about their favourite characters, what they think might happen next, or how they might handle a situation from the story.

Embrace All Forms of Reading

Remember that reading comes in many forms—comic books, magazines, recipe cards, game instructions, and even subtitles on movies all count as valuable reading practice. The goal is to keep children engaged with text and maintain their enthusiasm for the written word.

Be Patient and Flexible

Some days your child will devour three books, and other days they won't want to read at all. That's perfectly normal. Keep offering opportunities and maintaining the routine, but don't turn reading into a battle. The goal is to foster a lifelong love of books, not to check items off a summer learning list.

Final Thoughts

Summer reading success isn't measured by the number of books completed or the complexity of texts tackled. It's about maintaining that spark of curiosity and wonder that books can provide. When children see reading as a pleasure rather than a chore, they're more likely to become lifelong readers who turn to books for entertainment, information, and comfort throughout their lives.

At Little Book Factory, we're passionate about fostering a love of reading and writing in any form. Whether your young reader is just starting their literary journey or is already a voracious bookworm, we believe every child can find magic between the pages of a great book.

Happy reading, and have a wonderful summer filled with adventures—both real and imagined!