Be honest: did any kid ever cheer when the teacher handed out the summer reading list?
The phrase "required reading" alone is enough to make most children groan and lose interest before they've even opened the cover. But here's the good news. With the right approach and a little creativity, the summer break can actually become the season your child starts to enjoy reading — and those assigned books stop feeling like a punishment.
Here are five playful ways to make it happen.
Read it together
One of the simplest and most effective tricks is also the most overlooked: read together. Bedtime stories aren't just for little ones. Older kids can find it just as exciting to dive into a story alongside you.
These shared moments put two things in the spotlight at once — the book itself and the quality time you spend together. You're not only making the assigned reading more interesting, you're also helping your child stay open to this kind of activity in the future.
It's worth reading the chosen book yourself first, so you're ready for any questions that come up. Another great option is getting the title as an audiobook, so your child can listen anytime, anywhere.
Act it out
Role-play is a wonderful way to pull kids into the world of a book. Set up your own little "theater" at home and act out key scenes from the story.
Playing out the plot helps children understand the characters' motivations and feelings on a deeper level, and it builds empathy at the same time. Best of all, the story comes alive during the game — which can hook even the kids who usually keep their distance from books.
Rewrite the ending
Another exciting approach is to ask your child to write an alternative ending to the story. This isn't just great for their writing skills. It also encourages them to think critically about the events and the characters.
Encourage their imagination, and if they're up for it, let them illustrate the new ending too. Projects like this help kids discover the joy of writing while seeing the story from a fresh perspective. If you're looking for more gentle ways to nurture a young reader, small creative tasks like this are a brilliant place to start.
Use digital reading tools
In a world full of screens, there are plenty of platforms that can actually help children fall in love with reading. Make the most of e-readers, tablets, and apps designed specifically for kids.
These tools add interactive elements that make reading more enjoyable and support comprehension along the way. Online reading communities are another great option, giving kids a space to share their experiences with others — and maybe even make new friends in the process.
Watch the movie or animated version too
Many required books have been turned into films or animated adaptations, which can be a fantastic companion to the reading itself. The trick is to read the book first, then watch the screen version.
Afterward, talk about it together: what's similar, which scenes were left out, what the filmmakers changed, or which character your child pictured completely differently. It's not just a fun shared activity — it helps them understand the story and its characters more deeply, while sharpening their critical thinking.
Required reading doesn't have to feel like an obligation. With these simple tricks, it can become a joyful, shared experience for the whole family.
How can I get my child interested in required reading?
Try turning it into a shared, playful activity rather than a solo chore. Reading together, acting out scenes, or watching the film adaptation afterward can all make the book feel far more inviting.
Are audiobooks a good alternative to reading?
Yes. Getting the assigned title as an audiobook lets your child listen anytime, which can be an easy and enjoyable way to experience the story.
Should we watch the movie before or after reading the book?
Read the book first, then watch the film or animated version. Comparing the two afterward helps children understand the story more deeply and encourages critical thinking.
How does role-play help with reading?
Acting out scenes brings the story to life and helps children understand the characters' motivations and emotions, while also building empathy — even for kids who usually avoid books.
