Research shows that kids with engaged parents are more likely to succeed with reading. Here’s the good news: Small changes can make a big impact! Reading also benefits adults (so consider this your excuse to finally tackle that novel on your nightstand).
Beanstack helps bridge the gap between school and home reading efforts, making it easy to stay involved in your child’s reading journey—without feeling like you need a degree in literature.
Why Family Engagement Matters in Literacy
Kids are expert copycats—they watch, listen, and (sometimes, to our dismay) repeat everything we do. That’s why one of the most powerful ways to encourage reading is simply by doing it yourself. Whether you’re flipping through a novel, scanning the news, or even trying to decipher a tricky recipe, your child sees reading as a normal, valuable, and enjoyable part of everyday life. Think of it like eating your veggies—if kids see you savoring that broccoli (or at least pretending to), they’re more likely to give it a try, too.
And the research backs it up. Studies show that kids who read with their parents—or even just chat about books with them—tend to perform better in school, develop stronger vocabularies, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. Beyond academics, these students are also more likely to fall in love with reading itself. Snuggling up with a bedtime story, swapping book recommendations, or engaging in a spirited debate about whether the book was better than the movie sends a clear message: Books aren’t just for school but for life.
How Parents Can Support Reading at Home
You don’t need a perfect plan or hours of free time to support your child’s reading—just a few simple habits can make all the difference. Here are some easy (and fun!) ways to bring more books into your home life.
- Read aloud—at any age. Your toddler may love hearing Goodnight Moon for the hundredth time, but even older kids benefit from reading books aloud. Your teen may not want you reading to them, but they might listen to an audiobook on a road trip.
- Let them read in ways that work for them. Some kids love curling up with a graphic novel or manga, while others prefer ebooks or audiobooks. The format doesn’t matter—what’s important is that they’re engaged with a story.
- Talk about books. Ask your kids what they’re reading and share what you loved to read at their age.
- No book shaming! Whether it’s graphic novels, fantasy, or a book about their favorite YouTuber, let them read what interests them. The goal is to develop a love of reading—not to create a literary critic.
- Let kids see you reading. If they see you scrolling on your phone, they’ll want screen time; if they see you with a book, they’ll be more likely to reach for one, too. Even 10 minutes of reading together can set the tone!
Use Beanstack to Stay Engaged
Beanstack makes it easy to stay connected to your child’s reading journey, whether they’re logging books at school or through your local library.
- Track school and public library reading challenges. Many schools and libraries offer exciting reading challenges through Beanstack, turning reading into a fun, goal-oriented activity.
- Set personal reading goals and follow your child’s progress. Whether it’s minutes read per day or books completed, setting goals keeps kids motivated and builds consistency.
- Celebrate milestones together with fun badges and streaks. Kids love earning digital badges and tracking their streaks—it gives them a sense of achievement and keeps them coming back for more.
Unsure if you have access to Beanstack? See where Beanstack is available in your community.
Build a Reading Culture at Home
Make reading a part of your family’s everyday life with these simple ideas:
- Organize a family reading night. Set aside time each week to relax and read together, whether everyone brings their own book or takes turns reading aloud.
- Visit the library together and pick books for each other. This is a great way to discover new favorites and show your child that their reading choices matter.
- Read a book, then watch the movie or show adaptation. Compare what you liked better: the book or the screen version. It’s a great way to spark discussions.
- Join community reading programs and library events. Many libraries host author visits, book clubs, and literacy events that make reading a social and engaging activity.
Keep Reading a Fun, Low-Pressure Activity
Reading should never feel like homework. Let kids take breaks, explore different genres, and read at their own pace. When reading feels like a choice rather than a chore, kids are likelier to stick with it.
Parental involvement doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Small, consistent efforts—like discussing books, reading together, and celebrating milestones—lead to lifelong reading habits. With Beanstack, you can track progress, join challenges, and make reading a fun, family-wide experience. So why not start today? Your next favorite book might be waiting for you, too!