A dad’s guide to unlocking a love of reading
Reading with children isn’t just about stories – it’s a powerful way for dads to bond and supercharge their child’s development. This guide reveals how a simple daily reading habit can create magical moments and lasting benefits for both father and child, strengthening that unique connection a dad provides. Boys are often more reluctant than girls are to read for enjoyment – a dad who is a reading role model is a powerful way to change this.
Your simple 4-step guide to reading together
Starting a reading routine is easier than you think. Here’s how to begin.
1. Commit to a daily reading time
Find a small window each day that works for you and your child. It doesn’t have to be long—even 10-15 minutes before bed, after school, or first thing in the morning makes a huge difference. The goal is consistency.
2. Let your child choose the book
Giving your child the power to pick the story is a game-changer. It gives them a sense of control and makes them more excited to read. It doesn’t matter if it’s a new book, an old favourite, or even a comic.
3. Make it your special time
Put phones and other distractions away. Snuggle up on the sofa or in bed and make it a cozy, focused moment. This quality time shows your child they have your full attention, which is a powerful way of saying, “you matter to me.”
4. Have fun with it
You don’t have to be a professional storyteller. Use funny voices, laugh at the silly parts, and talk about the pictures. The goal isn’t perfect reading; it’s about sharing an experience and enjoying the story together.
Why it works: the outcomes
Our research shows that when dads commit to reading with their kids every day for just six weeks, the positive changes are remarkable, so why not give it a try!
• Stronger bonds
Reading together nurtures a powerful sense of togetherness. Dads in our study reported feeling closer to their children, creating a special bond that was just for them.
• Improved wellbeing
Children feel more secure, relaxed, and confident. A daily story can be a calming routine that helps them process their feelings and wind down. After six weeks, dads reported a positive effect on their child’s wellbeing in 47 out of 49 cases.
• Better behaviour
Many dads notice a significant improvement in their child’s behaviour when they read to them daily. The focused, positive attention from reading together often reduces tension and leads to a calmer, happier household.
• A boost in learning
Reading is a painless way to learn. The study showed a huge jump in dads agreeing that reading to their child positively affected their child’s learning. Children’s vocabulary, confidence, and even school performance improved.
It’s been a great study to be part of, and we’ll definitely keep it up. Certainly feel closer to my daughter than before.
Jim, dad to E (girl, 9)
His behaviour was challenging today, but 20 mins reading was a really good way for some positive time together.
Chris, dad to E (boy, 4)
My son is not especially cuddly, but reading is one time he will snuggle in, which I love!
Chris, dad to L (boy, 5)
Big praise from school today for her joining in with reading. She told the class that she’s been reading with Daddy... it’s impressed her teachers.
Joe, dad to D (girl, 6)
It has become a time of calmness, of bonding & a time when they both tell me about their day.
Gareth, dad to G (boy, 9) and V (girl, 6)
Love it. Such an amazing bonding moment between myself and the boys. We all love it and it’s a tradition I hope they take forward with them when / if they become fathers.
Brad, dad to L (11) and C (8)
