Should You Read to Your Child Every Day? Here’s What the Experts Say

Reading Every Day—A Gift More Than a Rule

If you’re a parent of a 6 to 12-year-old, chances are you’ve wondered whether daily reading is really necessary. Between homework, after-school activities, and the everyday hustle, it can feel like one more obligation on your already crowded plate. But what do the experts actually say about reading every day to your child? And how do we make it something joyful rather than another source of stress?

The short answer is: Yes, daily reading offers powerful benefits—but not in the rigid way you might think. Let’s unpack what truly matters when it comes to reading with your child, and how to make it fit into real, messy, beautiful family life.

Why Reading Aloud Still Matters—Even for Older Kids

It’s easy to assume that once your child can read on their own, reading aloud loses its value. However, experts in child development and literacy education emphasize just the opposite. Reading aloud offers a unique blend of emotional connection, vocabulary development, listening skills, and comprehension—all essential building blocks for academic success and lifelong learning.

A 10-minute bedtime story might not seem monumental, but it can help reinforce what they’re learning in school—from understanding narrative structure to decoding new vocabulary in context. And perhaps just as importantly, it gives them a rare moment to pause, feel safe, and enjoy your attention in a calm setting.

It's Not Just About the Books—It’s About the Bond

Imagine this: You and your child, curled up on the couch or nestled together before bed, sharing a story. No screens, no tests, no pressure—just the sound of your voice and the rhythm of imagination. It’s a ritual that builds trust, emotional intelligence, and a sense of belonging.

Experts note that even short doses of quality time like this can reduce school-related stress, especially in children who struggle with learning difficulties or homework anxiety. When reading becomes a moment of connection rather than a literacy drill, your child is more likely to see it as a pleasure rather than a task.

What If Your Child Doesn’t Want to Listen?

Every child goes through reading slumps—it doesn’t mean you’re failing or that they don’t enjoy books. Some kids may prefer different formats or stories that better match their current interests or reading level. This is where variety and flexibility can help.

Consider experimenting with:

• Short stories that keep attention without overwhelming them. Try exploring why short stories are so effective for this age group.
• Letting your child help choose the story—it gives them control and makes them more likely to engage.
• Try audiobooks or dramatized audio stories when you're short on time or feeling tired yourself. They can keep the spirit of storytime alive even when you can't be front and center.

A great resource for high-quality audio stories is the LISN Kids app, which offers a wide library of original audiobooks and audio series specially made for kids ages 3 to 12. Whether you're on the go or just need a calmer evening, apps like LISN Kids (available on iOS and Android) allow your child to relax and immerse themselves in a story—while giving you a break too.

When Reading Together Isn’t Always Possible

Some evenings, you won’t have time for a full story. Life happens—meetings run late, energy runs low, moods are fragile. And that’s okay. What matters most is consistency over time, not perfection every day. A five-minute snippet of reading is still a positive touchpoint. And the message you’re sending—“Stories matter, and so do you”—is what stays with your child long-term.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of independent reading. You might be surprised how even reluctant readers warm up when given the right material and the freedom to explore at their own pace. If you’re not sure how to help them start this journey, check out this helpful guide on encouraging independent reading.

Turning Reading Into a Shared Adventure

Rather than seeing daily reading as another item on your to-do list, view it as an opportunity to explore the world together. Talk about the characters, predict what might happen next, or even make up your own story endings. Every conversation around a story helps sharpen critical thinking, creativity, and curiosity.

Looking for ways to spark that storytelling spirit? These ideas for nurturing your child's imagination through stories can be great starting points.

The Takeaway

Is it essential to read to your child every single day? No. But is it valuable, powerful, and doable—even in small doses? Absolutely yes.

Reading doesn't need to be perfect or scripted. It just needs to be present, somewhere in the rhythm of your family’s week. Whether by your voice or a trusted audiobook, stories offer children comfort, learning, and a window into the wide world—and they can offer you a little bit of magic too, along the way.