Raising Readers: Expert Tips and Parenting Resources

At my library in Malleshpalya, I often tell parents that the goal isn't to create a 'good reader' who just gets through a list, but a curious child who views books as a gateway to new worlds. Whether you are dealing with a toddler who treats books like chew toys or a teenager who only wants to be on screens, the strategy is similar: make it interactive.

Creating a Reading Culture

Many parents in our Namma Bengaluru community ask how to sustain interest. My advice is to keep it low-pressure. If they want to read the same dinosaur book ten times, let them. If they want to read comics or instruction manuals, that counts as reading too. The more they associate books with their own interests, the more likely they are to pick one up voluntarily.

Interactive Learning at Home

Beyond just reading, I encourage parents to use storytelling as a foundation for all learning. We run several workshops at ThinkBox that you can replicate at home:

• The Author’s Chair: Let your child illustrate their own story. It builds massive confidence.
• STEM-Storytelling: After reading about a science concept, build a simple model, like a working electric bell or a seismograph, to ground the story in reality.
• Communication Exercises: Use simple boundary-setting games to discuss life skills, which helps them process emotions before they become big problems.

If you are struggling to find the right genre for your child or need a structured reading program, my library memberships offer curated book boxes tailored to specific age groups and interests. We do not just hand out books; we provide the support to help you and your child grow together. Drop by our hub or chat with me to get started.