6 tips on how to build early reading habits (without the pressure)

July 15, 2025

We know how it feels when you’re told, “Start reading early!” It sounds great in theory, but finding time to read can feel like just another thing on the never-ending to-do list. Trust us, we get it!

Here’s the secret: building early reading habits doesn’t have to mean long story sessions every night or turning your home into a mini-library (though we do love a good bookshelf!). It’s really about weaving books into your everyday routine in simple, fun ways that gradually build a love for reading.

Start from day one

It’s never too early to start reading to your baby! In those sleepy newborn days, read to them while they nap - the sound of your voice is comforting and familiar. As they grow, introduce black-and-white books, which are perfect for early development since newborns can only see high-contrast colours at first. Cloth books are especially great for babies too because they’re soft, safe to chew on, and can withstand all the little hands grabbing, tossing, and exploring making them an ideal tool for sensory development. Once they're ready for more interaction, try books with tactile features, like our Never Touch series, with fun silicone touches for little hands to explore.

And here’s a parenting hack we love: use a book to make tummy time more fun! Place an interactive book in front of your baby to keep them engaged while they strengthen those tiny muscles.

Start Small

No need for twenty-minute story marathons right off the bat. Just a few minutes here and there works wonders. Keep a book handy at meal times, pop one in your bag for when you’re out and about, or try some bath books for reading time with an extra splash! Pointing at pictures and saying words together also counts.

Follow their lead

If your little one wants to read the same book five times in a row, embrace it! Repetition helps little ones build familiarity with words and patterns. And, what if they wander off mid-story? No problem. Let them explore at their own pace – you’ll be surprised how much they take in, even if they don’t sit still.

Make it fun

Bring the story to life! Use funny voices, make animal sounds, or act out parts of the book. Reading should feel like playtime, not a lesson. Board books with textures, flaps, and bold pictures are great for keeping things interactive and exciting. Bonus points for any book with silly rhymes! Ahem: Never Touch . . .

Mix it up

Introduce a variety of books: storybooks, ABC books, counting books, touch-and-feel books, and more! Some days they’ll want a story and other days they might just want to poke a squishy bunny on the page twenty times. Both are wins! Try rotating books, moving them to different spots in your home so there’s always something ‘new’ to discover. A book that was in the living room one day might feel exciting all over again when it pops up in the toy box.

Don’t stress

Most importantly, don’t worry if every reading session doesn’t go as planned. Some days they’ll be into it; other days, not so much and that’s okay! The goal isn’t to turn them into a bookworm overnight but to show them that books are fun, comforting, and always there when they’re ready. At the end of the day, early reading is about connection. It’s those little moments of pointing at a picture or giggling over a funny sound that help build a lifelong love of books together.

So, grown-ups, let’s take the pressure off ourselves and just enjoy each page of fun with your little explorer.