Fostering a Love a Reading in Children

There was a lot of discussion this past spring about the third grade reading requirements for promotion in Arkansas laid out by the LEARNS Act of 2023. Third graders are now required to score at least a Level 2 on the reading portion of the Arkansas Teaching, Learning, and Assessment System (ATLAS) test in order to be promoted to the fourth grade. Only 42.8% of Arkansas third graders were proficient on the ELA (English Language Arts) section of the test in 2026. The numbers have risen slightly from 2025, but they still show that literacy rates in Arkansas are far below where they should and can be. Arkansas does not require private school or homeschooled students to take the ATLAS test so it is unknown how all students in the state are performing. In light of the numbers, I’m here to offer tips on how to help build your child’s literacy skills as well as how to help them develop a love of reading that will help them to be lifelong learners.

One of the best ways to get your child interested in reading is by giving them a choice in what they read. In the classroom, children are told what they must read. At home, allowing them to choose what they are reading gives them the opportunity to find something they are interested in which will greatly influence how they feel about reading. Helping them find books that focus on one of their interests or hobbies will ensure that they stay engaged with the subject matter and develop literacy skills that they will carry into the classroom.

Another way to encourage reading in children who are less than enthusiastic is by expanding the format choices of what they read. Graphic novels are a great way to get kids excited about reading. The illustrations can spark interest as well as help with reading comprehension and vocabulary building. Nonfiction books about their favorite animals, sports, or video games hold their interest longer than a fictional book with characters with whom they do not relate. Even something like a joke book will get them reading and wanting to continue to read..

Audiobooks are also a great way to support reluctant or challenged readers. Listening to audiobooks while reading along with the physical book promotes reading comprehension, vocabulary acquisition and pronunciation, and builds stamina for independent reading over time. 

Speaking of building stamina for independent reading, it is important to increase reading time at home gradually with reluctant and new readers. Starting with short reading sessions and building the length of them over time gives children a chance to build those literacy skills without burning them out or frustrating them. Telling a child who has no interest in reading to start with 30 minute sessions will overwhelm and frustrate them, fostering a resentment and dislike of reading. Meet your child where they are in their learning journey. Supporting growth can mean slowing down or limiting the amount of time they are expected to read at first. You can build up your child’s reading time as they progress.

Leading by example is a great way to build your child’s interest in reading. Seeing their parents or caregivers read demonstrates that reading is important and can be enjoyable. Set aside time to read as a family when possible. You can read a book together, or each person can read their own book in the same room. Get comfortable and cozy to make it a pleasurable experience for everyone.

While there is no one-size-fits-all method that works for every child, making reading a positive experience for your child is a great start.The staff at your Craighead County Jonesboro Public Library would love to help you and your child find a book to spark their love of reading. Pay us a visit today!