Raise a Reader: 10 Proven Tips to Help Your Child Fall in Love with Reading (Even If They Love Captain Underpants)

Introduction

Raising a reader isn't about forcing classics—it's about joy, connection, and letting kids dive into any book that lights them up, from Roald Dahl's witches to Dav Pilkey's hilarious Captain Underpants. These 10 tips draw from real family magic (like my kids begging for "the voice" from The Witches or tattoo dreams over Robert Munsch) to make reading irresistible.

1-3: Build Habits Through Play and Routine

Join local library playgroups and storytimes for interactive fun that turns strangers into book buddies—perfect low-pressure exposure for shy or autistic kids.
Transform bedtime into a special ritual: "Do the voices" like in Roald Dahl to create giggles and memories they'll crave (my crew still demands it!).
Embrace "garbage books" without worry—Captain Underpants obsessions are gateways; sneak in deeper reads during rainy days or routines.

4-6: Make Books Feel Precious

Gift books as treasures, starting simple and splurging later on painted spines or signed copies as they grow.
Curate a beautiful display space: cozy nooks with baskets of favorites, inviting touch and daily picks.
Try a 12 Days of Christmas twist—wrap 12 new books individually in a basket; kids unwrap one nightly for festive anticipation (we did this with my little ones!).

7-10: Model, Choose, and Connect

Let them lead: Child picks the book (comics count!), you read with flair—no judgment on "brain rot."
Read aloud yourself daily—they mimic what they see, turning reading into family bonding.
Weave in mental health wins: Journaling prompts from books or audiobooks for neurodivergent focus
Create printables: Reading trackers
Host mini book swaps or challenges to sustain the spark long-term.

Some of my families favourites:

This post contains affiliate links to books my family loves.

Roald Dahl Collection 16-Book Boxed Set

The Munch Grand Treasury

Little House on the Prairies