Five Easy Ways to Encourage Your Middle-Grade Reader

Getting kids excited about reading doesn’t have to be hard. Here are five simple tips for families to help middle-grade students fall in love with books -all while making reading fun and stress-free.

Let Them Choose

Let your child pick what they want to read, even if it is a comic, a graphic novel, or a book they have read before. Reading should be enjoyable, and re-reading a favorite book can build confidence and comfort with reading.

Talk About Books

Ask your child about what they are reading. Share your thoughts too! Talking about books makes reading a shared experience and helps kids connect with stories on a deeper level.

Respect Their Choices

If your child is struggling or bored with a book, it is okay to put it down. Forcing a book can turn reading into a chore. Let them explore what truly interests them.  This can include magazines, catalogues, and graphic novels.

Visit the Library Together

Make trips to the library or a bookstore a fun family activity. Discovering new books together can become a regular way to enjoy one-on-one time while helping your child explore new worlds through reading.

Lead by Example

Show your child that reading is fun by reading yourself, and share with them interesting passages. When kids see adults enjoying books, they are more likely to develop a reading habit. You can also encourage an older sibling to read to a younger sibling and make reading a contagious family tradition.

Our library is here to make reading easy and fun for everyone. Stop by your local branch to browse, borrow, or get recommendations from our friendly staff - you might just find your child’s next favorite book!