How Joyful Reading Helps Kids Fall in Love With Books
What if your child’s love for reading didn’t start with phonics, but with pancakes, pink frogs, and superhero potatoes?
Research shows that when kids connect with books through joy, creativity, and identity, they don’t just learn to read—they love to read. And that love is what sticks.
This post shares what researchers found—and how you can bring more joy to reading time at home.
Kids Aren’t Just Listening—They’re Living the Story
A five-year-old once said:
“I want to be the hero.”
That’s more than imagination—it’s self-expression. Picture books let kids explore who they are and who they want to be. Saying “I can be the hero” builds confidence as well as language.
Joy Isn’t Extra—It’s Essential
Researchers saw joy show up in different ways:
- Emotional joy – feeling love and comfort
- Visual joy – delighting in pictures and characters
- Imaginative joy – curiosity and wonder
- Social joy – enjoying time together
One child drew an acorn and said,
“When I look at the book, I feel that I love my mom.”
Another loved “a rhino eating pancakes.” These moments reflect deep engagement—and a real bond with stories.
How to Create Joyful Reading Moments at Home
Try these 7 easy strategies:
- Let Them Be the Hero
Ask: “Who reminds you of you?” or “What would you do in this story?” - Make Space for Drawing and Talking
Give them crayons and ask: “Can you draw your favorite part?” - Play With the Story
Change the ending, add characters, or switch points of view. - Ask Thoughtful Questions
Try: “Was that fair?” or “What would you have done?” - Talk About the Pictures
Ask: “What do you notice?” or “What makes this picture fun?” - Read Together—and Re-Read
Familiarity builds confidence. Let them pick the book—even if it’s the same one again. - Celebrate the Fun
Point out the joy: “That part made us both laugh!”
Reading with kids isn’t just about sounding out words—it’s about wonder, confidence, and connection. When we let them take the lead, laugh, and imagine freely, we raise kids who read not just because they can—but because they want to.
because they want to.