We’re always told to get kids reading from an early age — but do we really stop to think about why it matters so much?
We teamed up with Schoolbooks.ie to dig into the real benefits of reading for children. From bigger imaginations and stronger vocabulary to real empathy and better concentration, the list is a long one. Here are six benefits to start you off, along with some tried-and-tested book recommendations to help your child fall in love with reading.
Inspiring your child to read more is one of the best gifts you can give them. The benefits follow them right into adulthood, in ways you might not expect. There are wonderful books out there for every age, ability and interest — and there’s nothing quite like hearing your child burst out laughing over a page they’re completely lost in.
Benefits of Reading for Your Child
#1. Increases Their World and Imagination!
Reading can take children — and adults — on magical journeys. Through books, children learn about people, places and events far beyond their own experience. They’re exposed to ways of life, ideas and beliefs that may be very different from their own, and reading opens the door to different countries and cultures while feeding their imagination.
Children naturally have vivid imaginations, and reading nurtures that creativity. Creativity matters for building interests, ideas and confidence. David Walliams books are a brilliant, laugh-out-loud read for kids of all ages.
#2. Increases Vocabulary & Confidence
“Practice makes perfect” really does apply here. Children who read from a young age generally get better at reading — and that builds the confidence to tackle more challenging books.
The vocabulary children pick up from reading shouldn’t be underestimated either. Kids will try out new words they’ve just read in everyday conversation, sometimes with hilarious results. Captain Underpants is a firm favourite in many households — and yes, it leads to some very funny sentences at the dinner table.
#3. Increases Concentration
Plenty of children (and more than a few adults!) find it hard to concentrate for long stretches. Reading encourages kids to get lost in a story, keeping their focus on one task for a sustained period.
To follow a story properly, a child needs to give it their full attention — and that’s exactly how concentration develops. It’s one of the quieter benefits of reading, but one that carries through into every part of life as children grow up.
Many children discover Harry Potter as their first “big kid” book. The text is smaller and the story more complex than they’re used to — a real step up that builds concentration as they get pulled into the plot.
Feed the bookworm at Schoolbooks.ie
Looking for the next great read? Schoolbooks.ie has a wide range of children’s books to help keep your little bookworm turning pages. Browse the collection here.
#4. Helps Develop Empathy
A good plot and strong writing will draw any reader in — but it’s the characters we identify with that really pull at the heartstrings and build empathy.
Children often connect deeply with characters facing a fear, or finding the courage to do something brave. Many families find that after watching a film adaptation — Wonder is a great example — children are keen to read the book too, coming back with questions about what happens and how the characters feel.
Sometimes a story mirrors something a child, a friend, or a classmate is going through. That can help them find their own way through a problem, or simply feel less alone. The right story can also give children the vocabulary to talk about their own worries and feelings with the people around them.
You may also enjoy: Free Printable Book Scavenger Hunt
#5. Ultimate Solution to “I’m Bored”
If you can read, you’re never really bored. Hours can disappear into a good book, carrying you away from whatever’s going on around you and into a completely different world.
One of the best things about reading is just how much choice there is. There’s a book for every subject and every interest, available from libraries, bookshops and online. Why not start your child’s reading journey today?
#6. Improves Schoolwork
Reading doesn’t just build confidence in language subjects — it lifts performance across the board.
The obvious wins are subjects like history, geography and science, where children need to read text and pick out the key points. But even maths benefits from a child’s ability to read and understand a question properly.
You may also enjoy: 12 Fun & Easy Homemade Bookmarks That Kids Can Make
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is reading important for children?
Reading helps children build a bigger imagination, a stronger vocabulary, better concentration and real empathy for others. It also supports schoolwork across every subject, not just language and literacy.
How can I encourage my child to read more?
Start with books that match their interests and reading level, keep a good mix of titles available at home, and let them see you reading too. Talking to them about what they’re reading — asking how a character feels, or what might happen next — helps deepen their enjoyment.
What are some good books to start with?
Popular choices include David Walliams books, Captain Underpants, Harry Potter and Wonder — all mentioned above — but the best book is always the one that matches your child’s own interests and reading stage.
Related Articles
- Free Printable Book Scavenger Hunt
- 12 Fun & Easy Homemade Bookmarks That Kids Can Make
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