My Child Hates Reading - What Parents in Trinidad Can Do (That Actually Works)
If you’ve ever heard, “I don’t like reading.” or watched your child avoid books, rush through reading time, or get frustrated the moment a book comes out; this blog is for you.
As a primary school teacher in Trinidad, I want to reassure you of something important:
👉 Most children do not hate reading.
👉 They hate how reading has been introduced to them.
And the good news? That can change.
Why So Many Children Push Back Against Reading
In my classroom and through my work with parents, I’ve noticed a pattern. Children resist reading when:
Books are too difficult
Books are not interesting
Reading feels like punishment or pressure
They’re afraid of making mistakes
They’ve been told they’re “Behind”
Reading becomes stressful instead of enjoyable.
Once that happens, children would avoid reading.
The Biggest Mistake Parents Make (And It’s Very Common)
One of the most common things parents say to me is: “I bought the book because it’s at their level.”
Level matters but interest matters more. A child who loves animals will read more willingly about animals. A child who loves adventure will try harder with stories that excite them.
📌 When interest comes first, effort follows.
This is why choosing the right book is more important than choosing a “harder” one.
Browse our carefully selected children’s books👇🏽
Products – Bold Print BookShop
What Actually Helps Children Enjoy Reading Again
Here are strategies that work, both at home and in the classroom:
Let your child choose the book
Read with your child, not at them
Stop correcting every mistake
Talk about the story instead of testing them
Keep reading sessions short and calm
Reading should feel safe. When children feel safe, they take risks. When they take risks, they grow.
Why the “Right Book” Makes All the Difference
I’ve seen children who “hate reading” suddenly light up, simply because they were finally given a book that matched:
their interests
their personality
their confidence level
This is exactly why personal book guidance matters.
Get personalized book recommendations for your child or details about our Children’s Book Club.
Products – Bold Print BookShop or The Desha Academy
Sometimes parents don’t need more books. They need the right one.
When Reading Struggles Affect School Performance
It affects:
Comprehension
Writing
confidence in class
willingness to participate
This is why reading support should be gentle, consistent, and encouraging.
Learn how Desha Academy supports children beyond the classroom
A Simple Reading Reset You Can Try Tonight; try this:
Choose a book your child likes (even if it seems “easy”)
Read for 10 minutes only
Stop before frustration begins
Talk about the story; no questions, no pressure
Consistency beats intensity. You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
If reading has become a daily struggle in your home, be supportive.
At Bold Print Bookshop, parents are not left guessing.
At Desha Academy, children are supported.
Message us or visit Bold Print Bookshop/Desha Academy in San Fernando for book support
Visit Us @ The Desha Academy
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