Books Over Screens: 5 Smart Ways to Inspire Reading Habits in Kids

Ever wish your child would choose a book instead of the TV remote? You’re not alone. When cartoons, games and videos are just a tap away, getting children reading can be tricky. But with a few fun and friendly steps, books can become their favourite part of the day.

In this article, we will look at five smart ways to get your child excited about reading.

1. Make a Reading Spot That Feels Special

Children love having a space that’s just for them. A cosy little corner where imagination can flourish. Turn a small part of your home into a special reading zone.
✅ A fun space for reading makes it enjoyable.
✅ When it’s their little corner, kids feel more connected to books.
✅ Adding a soft cushion, favourite books, and a toy can create an inviting atmosphere.
✅ Keeping books in one place helps turn reading into a daily habit.
When the space feels fun and welcoming, reading becomes something they want to do. A little comfort can make books feel magical.

2. Pick Books That Match Their Interests

Every child is different. Some love running around and playing sports. Others dream of flying or saving the day like superheroes. And some have big imaginations that take them to new places without even leaving the house. The best way to make children read is to give them books that match what they already love.
That’s where the colourful, easy-to-read Telling Teeny Tales series comes in. These books are full of tiny stories with big adventures.

Sports and Entertainment 
This set is all about action, fun and performing. Whether it is a football match, a circus trick or a music concert, these stories bring energy to every page. Your child will meet dancing dolphins, cricket champions and stage stars who overcome fears and have lots of laughs along the way.
Perfect for little sports stars and performers who like to cheer, clap and play.

Superhero and Fantasy
These tales are packed with magical powers, invisible friends, talking animals and castles in the sky. There are brave girls with secret strengths and silly creatures with big hearts. Every story feels like stepping into a new world.
Perfect for children who have big dreams, enjoy fairy tales, or pretend to fly around the house.

Travel and Home Adventures
This set takes kids on little adventures — sometimes around the world, sometimes right at home. From visiting zoos and parks to finding surprise adventures in their kitchen or backyard, these stories show that excitement is everywhere if you look closely.
Ideal for curious minds who enjoy discovering new places, people, and ideas.

Explore all three sets now on Offshoot Books and find the perfect match for your little reader’s big personality.

3. Read Together Like a Team

Kids don’t just want to listen. They want to join in! Make reading a two-way chat.
✅ Take turns reading pages
✅ Ask fun questions like, “What do you think happens next?”
✅ Let them guess silly endings or change the voices

This improves children's thinking skills, reading abilities, and makes them feel like clever little storytellers.

4. Use Screens to Lead to Books

Instead of saying “no more screens”, why not use them smartly?
If your child watches a cartoon based on a book, say, “Let’s read the book version too and see what’s different!”
You can also try this simple swap rule:
20 minutes of book time = 30 minutes of screen time
It’s a gentle way to turn screen time into a reward.

5. Make Reading Part of the Day

Small reading moments add up — and kids notice what grown-ups do too.
Try these little changes:
✅ Read a bedtime story every night
✅ Keep books in the car, in your bag or by the bed
✅Praise them when they finish a book or read on their own
Even five minutes a day helps make learning to read feel easy and fun.

A Happy Habit That Lasts
You don’t need fancy plans or long hours. Simply make books accessible, stories enjoyable to read, and reading time something to look forward to.
Looking for a fun way to begin?
Explore the Telling Teeny Tales collection, which includes small books packed with big ideas. 
Let’s build a world where children's reading is just as exciting as screen time.