My Child Doesn’t Like Reading: How to Help Them Fall in Love with Stories

Understanding the Roots of Reading Resistance

As parents, we often dream of our children curling up with a book, lost in the wonder of magical worlds and unforgettable characters. But what happens when your 7-, 9-, or even 11-year-old just can’t—or won’t—engage with books? You’ve tried colorful chapter novels, funny comics, even let them pick their own books at the library, but their interest fizzles out quickly. If this feels familiar, know that you’re not alone—and it’s not a lost cause.

For many kids, especially those between the ages of 6 and 12, not enjoying reading doesn’t mean they’re uninterested in stories. It could mean that the format, environment, or expectations surrounding reading aren’t working for them. And helping a child develop a love for stories starts with rethinking how we define what "reading" should look like.

Stories Aren’t Just on Pages

One of the first and most powerful shifts a parent can make is recognizing that loving stories doesn’t have to begin with holding a physical book. Some children are auditory learners or have vivid imaginations that are fired up more by hearing a story than by reading one. At this stage, what matters is engaging with narrative—how a story flows, how characters evolve, how problems unfold and resolve. Books are just one vehicle.

That’s where storytelling in different formats can open new doors. For example, audiobooks can create a bridge for children who find traditional reading stressful, slow, or boring. Listening to a story while drawing, playing quietly, or just resting in bed can make narratives more accessible and enjoyable. Apps like iOS or Android offer curated audio content specifically for children. One such app worth exploring is LISN Kids, which features a library of original audio stories and series tailored for ages 3–12. It’s designed to bring high-quality storytelling to children without adding more screen time.

Minimize the Pressure, Maximize the Joy

It’s easy to fall into the trap of treating reading like another task on the to-do list—something to complete, measure, and correct. But this kind of pressure can turn reading into a battleground. Instead, shift the purpose of reading to connection, imagination, and delight.

Here’s how that might look in everyday life:

• Read aloud together—even if your child can read on their own. Shared reading keeps it social and enjoyable.
• Model reading yourself. Let your child see you curled up with books, newspapers, or even graphic novels.
• Let go of expectations for reading speed or book level. It’s okay to read funny picture books at 10 if it keeps the spark alive.

It’s also a good idea to reassess the environment. Is your child being asked to read at times when they’re overstimulated—or exhausted? You might find this article on hyperactivity before bedtime helpful if evenings are especially tough.

Find Stories in Everyday Life

You can help your child develop a narrative “lens” by tapping into storytelling outside of books. At dinner, ask them to tell you a story about their day—with a beginning, middle, and end. Invent your own stories together while driving or walking home. Watch movies with strong plots and talk about what happened and why. These storytelling muscles support the same skills that make reading rewarding: following characters, tracking plot, and empathizing with others.

And if your child enjoys screen time, there are ways to steer that experience toward storytelling as well. Thoughtful screen-based content can sometimes help bridge interest from shows to books. Complement it with creative activities from this guide to rainy day activities and turn passive watching into inspired play.

Accept the Journey (and the Detours)

There’s no single path to becoming a reader—or a lover of stories. Some children will dive headfirst into fantasy books by age 7. Others may not find what they love until 11, and some may favor storytelling through song, spoken word, or game-based narratives. Your job isn’t to control their pace, but to offer consistent pathways that keep stories near.

Try alternating formats from week to week: an audiobook while building Lego one day, a read-aloud from a silly chapter book the next, a storytelling game on the weekend. Tools like this list of quiet, creative games can be a great way to make space for relaxed attention—a crucial element in developing an appreciation for stories.

And when energy levels run high (as they often do after school), consider tapping into these calmer evening routines to help your child feel more at ease, emotionally grounded, and better able to enjoy story time—whichever form you choose.

Final Thoughts: Lead with Curiosity, Not Concern

Your child’s reluctance to read isn’t a reflection of who they are or where they’re headed—it’s an invitation to get curious. What kinds of stories light their eyes up? What format helps them feel safe and excited to explore? You don’t need to push harder. Instead, open more doors. Be willing to journey into format-free storytelling, to let go of your reading expectations, and to discover the joy of stories, in all their many forms, together.