Why it's worth it to help kids love reading

Ceara Deno, MD • July 17, 2021
Schedule A Free Call

Readers are MADE, not born

Not everyone is born loving to read.  That’s OK.  Readers are MADE, not born. 

As a parent, you can help a reluctant reader learn to love reading.  Even if you don't love it yourself!


The best thing you can do is create opportunities for your child to see books as relevant and interesting to THEM.  This means following THEIR interests.  And reading to them.  Find more ways to make reading and books part of your family's life. 

Why bother? 


Being read to, or reading independently:


--supports language development

--teaches about the world

--builds self-confidence

--is the gateway to all future academic learning

--builds curiosity, memory and motivation

--improves listening skills and attention span

--creates a positive family bond and connection when shared with your child



What are you reading with your child now?  Don't stop, even as they get older. The closeness and skills you are cultivating are building a foundation for life.


By Ceara Deno, MD April 14, 2026
Parenting a highly sensitive child who overreacts to small things? Learn what’s really going on beneath the meltdowns—and what actually helps you respond with confidence and calm.
By Ceara Deno, MD March 30, 2026
Overwhelmed by your child’s behavior? Learn how small, manageable parenting shifts can help you get unstuck, reduce guilt, and build lasting change.
By Ceara Deno, MD March 23, 2026
Feeling overwhelmed parenting a highly sensitive child? Learn why waiting to get support can keep you stuck—and how getting help now can bring more calm and connection.
By Ceara Deno, MD March 16, 2026
When kids say hurtful things like “I hate you,” they may be expressing overwhelm, shame, or disappointment. Learn how to hear the feelings beneath hurtful, angry words.
By Ceara Deno, MD March 10, 2026
Many parents worry about their child’s anger. Learn why anger can actually serve an important purpose for highly sensitive kids and what it may be telling you.
By Ceara Deno, MD March 2, 2026
Is your child highly sensitive, have ADHD, or both? Learn how to understand big emotions, power struggles, and overwhelm, and discover a relational approach to support your child’s nervous system.
By Ceara Deno, MD February 26, 2026
Discover why play isn’t just for kids. Learn how adults can benefit from small, joyful, and playful moments — with your kids or on your own — to boost connection, laughter, and well-being.
By Ceara Deno, MD February 11, 2026
Feeling stuck in parenting challenges? See how noticing tiny moments of connection — or ‘glimmers’ — can transform your relationship with your child.
By Ceara Deno, MD February 4, 2026
A powerful parenting reframe for challenging kids: how seeing your child as having a hard time—not giving one—can change connection and behavior.
By Ceara Deno, MD January 27, 2026
Discover why real change with sensitive, strong-willed kids starts in the parent—not the child. Learn how steadiness, not control, breaks power struggles and helps your child thrive.
More Posts