One of the questions I get asked most often by parents is along the lines of, “My child only wants to read Diary of a Wimpy Kid (or Dogman/Dork Diaries/Tom Gates). How do I help them read something more challenging?”

This is a really common concern and it comes from such a good place: wanting your child to stretch their vocabulary, deepen their comprehension and transfer these skills into their writing. But here’s the thing: those seemingly ‘easy’ books absolutely do have a place on your child’s bookshelf (and it’s often a more important place than you might think).

Finding it difficult to encourage your child to read? You’re not alone and it’s certainly not a reflection of your efforts. Reading habits are deeply personal. Developing them takes time, flexibility and a little creativity. Here are some practical ways to make the process easier, more enjoyable and far less of a struggle…