Getting Children to Love Reading: How to Overcome Digital Distractions and Boost Motivation

Is Your Child Losing Interest in Reading?

Many parents and teachers today are facing the same challenge—getting children to read. In a world filled with screens, video games, and social media, books often take a backseat. It’s not that children don’t want to read—it’s just that there are so many other things competing for their attention.

If your child struggles to pick up a book, or if schools are finding it harder to get students excited about reading, you’re not alone. The good news? There are ways to motivate children to love books again, and organisations like the Rebel Reading Society are here to help!

Let’s take a look at why children are reading less, how screen time plays a role, and what parents, teachers, and schools can do to make books fun again.

Why Are Children Reading Less?

There was a time when children would curl up with a book for hours, but now, many struggle to focus for more than a few minutes. Why?

1. Screens Are More Entertaining

Books require time, imagination, and patience, while screens offer instant gratification. Whether it’s TikTok, YouTube, or video games, digital content is designed to be highly engaging—sometimes making books seem slow in comparison.

2. Shorter Attention Spans

Many children are used to scrolling quickly through content, which makes sitting down to read a chapter book feel like a big effort.

3. Reading Feels Like Schoolwork

Children often associate books with homework, tests, and “having to read” rather than something fun.

4. A Lack of Encouragement

If reading isn’t part of daily life at home, children may not see it as something enjoyable or valuable.

5. Schools Are Facing the Same Struggles

Teachers work hard to promote reading, but they’re up against busy schedules, different reading levels in one classroom, and the same distractions from technology. Many schools are finding it tough to make books feel exciting when children would rather watch videos or play games.

So, how do we fix this? By making reading fun, rewarding, and social!

How to Motivate Children to Read (and Actually Enjoy It!)

If you’re a parent or teacher, you might be wondering how to help children get back into books. The secret? Motivation. When children are excited to read, they’ll do it naturally—without being forced. Here’s how:

1. Let Children Choose Their Own Books

If a child is excited about a book, they’re more likely to read it! Give them the freedom to pick books that match their interests, whether it’s superheroes, animals, mysteries, or comics.

2. Turn Reading Into a Game

Make reading fun with challenges, rewards, and incentives. Try setting goals like “read for 10 minutes a day” or “finish three books this month” and celebrate their achievements.

3. Set a Daily Reading Routine

Just like brushing teeth, reading should be a daily habit. Whether it’s a bedtime story, a quiet morning read, or a weekend trip to the library, make reading part of their routine.

4. Make Books Social

Children love sharing what they’re excited about! Talk about books together, encourage book swaps with friends, or join a reading club to make reading a group activity.

5. Balance Screen Time and Reading Time

It’s unrealistic to ban screens completely—but you can set limits. Try a simple rule like “30 minutes of reading before screen time” to create a healthy balance.

How the Rebel Reading Society Can Help

If you’re looking for extra support, the Rebel Reading Society is here to make reading fun, interactive, and exciting for children, parents, and schools.

Here’s how they help:

For Parents:

✅ A Fun Reading Community – Children can share book recommendations, take part in reading challenges, and celebrate their progress.

✅ Exciting Rewards and Challenges – Reading badges, prizes, and fun competitions keep children engaged.

✅ Support for Parents – Struggling to encourage reading? The society offers book lists, tips, and practical advice.

For Schools and Teachers:

📚 Book Clubs and Workshops – The society partners with schools to run engaging book clubs and storytelling events.

📚 Reading Competitions – Fun, school-wide challenges help motivate students to read more.

📚 Encouraging a Balance Between Screens and Books – Schools can use creative strategies to help students develop healthier reading habits.

Final Thoughts: Reading Can Be Fun Again!

The reality is, children are surrounded by distractions—but that doesn’t mean they can’t love books. With the right motivation, support, and a little creativity, children can rediscover the joy of reading.

If you want to help your child (or students) develop a love for books, consider joining The Rebel Reading Society—because reading should feel like an adventure, not a chore!