OTT 239: 3 Mistakes That Make Kids Hate Reading (And How to Fix Them!)

Reading doesn't have to be a battleground. After a long hiatus, I'm back with a critical message for parents and educators alike: we may be unknowingly turning kids away from books through three common mistakes.

The first mistake is forcing children to read only "just-right" books. When kids can only access books at their exact reading level, reading becomes a constant test rather than a joyful experience. The solution? A 60-40 approach where most reading time is spent with books they genuinely love, with the remainder dedicated to skill-building. Let that dinosaur-obsessed child explore paleontology books, even if they're technically "too easy" or filled with pictures. Their enthusiasm will naturally lead to growth.

Next, we often make the devastating error of using reading as a punishment or obligation. "No screens until you finish reading" transforms books from treasures into chores. Instead, reframe reading as a special activity: "Let's have a cozy reading break!" Create reading picnics, try flashlight reading under blankets, or listen to audiobooks while drawing. These simple shifts make reading feel like a privilege rather than a penalty.

Finally, our obsession with reading speed over comprehension damages understanding and enjoyment. Rather than counting words per minute, encourage children to "read like you're telling a story." Pause to discuss characters' choices, make predictions, and connect stories to their lives. Echo reading—where you model expressive reading and they repeat—builds confidence without pressure.

Download my free five-minute reading fix in the show notes for quick, actionable strategies that will transform your child's relationship with books. Whether you're a classroom teacher, homeschool parent, or caregiver, these research-backed approaches will help children discover the true magic of reading.

The 5 Minute Reading Fix for Parents

The 5 Minute Reading Fix for Teachers

Readers in the Making Newsletter

Subscribe and Review:

Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix, and if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here for iTunes.

Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find my podcast, and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!