Raising readers in the age of reels: 6 ways parents can encourage strong reading habits in children amid digital distractions

Getting kids to fall in love with reading can feel like an uphill climb in today’s fast-paced, screen-obsessed world. With short videos and endless social-media reels fighting for their attention, a good book can seem almost invisible.

Yet, helping children build a lifelong reading habit is one of the most powerful gifts parents can give as it fuels their imagination, sharpens their minds, nurtures empathy and lays a strong foundation for academic success. However, the burning question is: How can parents raise readers amidst the distractions of screens and instant content gratification? If you too want to nurture reading enjoyment and skills in your child without competing against every swipe or scroll, here are some practical, evidence-based advice from recent studies that can help:

1. Make reading a shared, interactive experience

Did you know shared reading is one of the most effective ways to develop early literacy skills and a positive attitude toward books? According to a 2021 study, Dialogic reading and vocabulary development by Kucirkova et al., published in Reading Research Quarterly, “interactive reading that includes dialogic techniques — asking questions, discussing story elements and making connections — boosts vocabulary acquisition and comprehension in young children.”

Smart tip:Instead of passively reading aloud, engage your child with questions like “What do you think will happen next?” or “Have you ever felt like this character?” This transforms reading into a lively conversation and strengthens language skills.

2. Utilise digital tools judiciously to enhance reading

Though screens often get a bad rap, not all digital content harms reading habits. A 2022 study, Digital story apps and early literacy by Flewitt and colleagues in Early Childhood Education Journal, found that when digital story apps are interactive and designed for learning, they can boost motivation and narrative understanding, especially when parents participate.

Smart tip:Choose story apps of high quality with interactive features and read with your child. Use digital tools as a supplement, not a replacement, for traditional books.

3. Create an environment rich in prints

Exposure is important or so a longitudinal study (Home book availability and literacy published in Child Development in 2019 by Evans, Kelley, Sikora and Treiman) found when a strong correlation was found between children's reading frequency plus literacy outcomes and the number of books at their home.

Children surrounded by books naturally develop curiosity and reading habits.

Smart tip:Fill your home with age-appropriate books and magazines. Be a role model for your children by letting them see you reading for pleasure.

4. Encourage choice and autonomy in reading

When children can choose books that interest them, they are more likely to read. The study Autonomy in reading and motivation by Guthrie et al. (2020) in Journal of Educational Psychology highlighted that “autonomy-supportive environments where children select their own reading materials lead to greater engagement and persistence.”Smart tip:Go to a library or a bookstore with your child and let them choose books, even if they are graphic novels or comics. A sense of ownership over reading is fostered when you support their choices.

5. Connect the stories to interests and real-life situations

Meaning and interest are enhanced when books are connected to real-world experiences. “When children can relate story content to their own lives or hobbies, they develop stronger emotional connections and retention,” according to Story connections and reading comprehension, a 2018 Language Arts paper by Sipe and McGuire. Smart tip:After reading a book about animals, plan a visit to the zoo or watch a documentary together. Find books about planets for your child who is interested in space and pair this reading session with some nights spent stargazing.

6. Manage screen time and establish reading rituals

Balancing screen time with reading is the key. As a counterbalance to digital media, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) 2023 guidelines recommend consistently limiting recreational screen time and encouraging daily reading habits.

Encourage cosy reading routines like reading at bedtime or going to the library on the weekends, to incorporate reading into your family's routine and foster positive associations.

Raising readers in a world saturated with instantaneous digital content requires creativity, perseverance, and deliberateness. Parents can instil a lifelong love for reading in their children by providing choice, making reading interactive, connecting books to real-life experiences and making thoughtful use of technology. It is less about competing with screens and more about creating meaningful reading moments that spark curiosity, imagination and joy.