Hearing your child say, “I hate reading!” can be heartbreaking—especially when you know how important literacy is for their future. But for kids with dyslexia, reading isn’t just hard. It can feel overwhelming, embarrassing, or even painful.
Dyslexia affects the way the brain processes written language. Children with dyslexia often struggle with decoding, spelling, and reading fluency. Despite their intelligence and creativity, they may avoid books because reading feels like a constant uphill climb.
Here are practical and encouraging strategies to turn reading time into something your child can look forward to:
1. Pick Books That Spark Joy
The right book can change everything. Choose stories about topics your child already loves—like dinosaurs, magic, mysteries, or silly jokes. Graphic novels, joke books, and high-interest nonfiction are all fantastic options.
Books designed specifically for dyslexic readers—using special fonts and layouts—can also make a huge difference in readability and confidence.
2. Make Reading a Relaxing Experience
Create a quiet, cozy corner with soft lighting and no distractions. Invite your child to bring a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or snack. The goal is to help them associate reading with comfort, not stress.
Keep sessions short at first—5 to 10 minutes is plenty. End on a high note to leave your child feeling successful.
3. Read Aloud Together
Reading aloud is one of the most powerful tools for supporting struggling readers. You model fluent reading, and your child gets to enjoy the rhythm of the story without the pressure of decoding every word.
Take turns reading, or let them follow along as you read. This supports comprehension and helps build vocabulary while reinforcing that reading can be social and enjoyable.
4. Incorporate Movement and Sensory Input
Many dyslexic children are also kinesthetic learners—they absorb information better when they’re physically engaged. Let your child jump on a trampoline while listening to a story or trace letters in the air with their finger.
You can even act out stories, draw scenes from books, or use letter tiles and blocks to spell out words from the story. When learning becomes hands-on, it also becomes more memorable.
5. Shift Focus from Perfection to Understanding
It’s easy to get caught up in fixing mistakes or correcting pronunciation, but try to resist. Instead of focusing on errors, focus on meaning. Ask, “What do you think will happen next?” or “Why did the character feel that way?”
When kids realize reading is about ideas and imagination—not just accuracy—they begin to relax and enjoy it more.
6. Let Them Lead the Way
Give your child a say in what, when, and how they read. Let them choose the book, decide whether they want to read aloud or silently, and even take breaks when needed. Autonomy builds motivation.
You can also create positive associations by tying reading to special moments—like bedtime stories, weekend “book picnics,” or reading to pets.
7. Recognize and Celebrate Every Victory
Even reading a single sentence is an achievement. Praise your child’s effort, not just the outcome. Use phrases like, “I love how you figured that out,” or “You stayed with it even when it was tricky—great job!”
A child who feels safe, supported, and celebrated is more likely to stick with something that challenges them.
Final Thoughts
Your child’s dislike of reading isn’t about laziness or lack of interest. It’s about struggle, fear of failure, and frustration. But with your support and a few creative adjustments, books can become a source of connection, empowerment, and fun.
If you suspect your child’s reading challenges may be linked to attention difficulties, an ADHD diagnosis in Singapore can offer deeper insight and guide you to tailored interventions that really work.
The Singapore Brain Development Center (SBDC) provides expert evaluations and holistic programs designed to help children with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning differences thrive. Let SBDC walk alongside you in making reading a joyful and rewarding journey for your child.
Contact us today to learn how to turn “I hate reading!” into “Can we read one more page?”