How to Encourage Reading in Home Education

Reading and Home Education UK: Why Books Still Matter

Reading is at the heart of home education in the UK. It builds curiosity, confidence, and focus in ways screens can’t match. For many families, the challenge is keeping reading alive in a world filled with devices and distractions. This post shares practical ways to encourage reading at home, create family routines that make books part of daily life, and find trusted UK reading resources to keep learning joyful and affordable. Whether your child loves stories, comics, or facts, reading gives them the tools to learn independently and see the world with a wider view.

Why Reading Still Matters in the Digital Age

In a world full of screens, reading develops the skills that quick scrolling can’t. It strengthens memory, builds vocabulary, and deepens understanding. In the age of AI, it also ensures that they are able to access information from reputable historical resources, in addition to (and sometimes in conflict with) online resources that can be edited, redacted for social or political reasons. For home-educated children, these reading skills support every subject, from science to history and beyond.

The National Literacy Trust reports that children who read daily are three times more likely to read above the expected level for their age. Regular reading also improves writing and boosts emotional well-being. Books feed curiosity and imagination, helping children think deeply rather than skim. That’s what makes reading one of the strongest foundations for learning at home.

Simple Ways to Encourage Reading at Home

Building a reading culture in your home doesn’t require big budgets or complex plans. It’s about small, steady habits that make books part of daily life.

Try these proven ideas used by many UK home-educating families:

• Read aloud every day. Reading aloud builds listening skills and vocabulary, even for older children.
• Keep books visible. Put them in baskets, on coffee tables, and near beds. Accessibility encourages spontaneous reading.
• Use your local library. Most UK libraries offer print, e-books, and audiobooks through Libby or BorrowBox. Many also host free events for home-educated children.
• Let children choose. Graphic novels, magazines, or non-fiction all count. Choice leads to motivation.
• Create short reading routines. Ten minutes after lunch or before bed can make reading a habit, not a chore.

Reading aloud, even for just 15 minutes a day, can add up to over 90 hours of shared reading a year, enough to make a visible difference in comprehension and confidence.

Balancing Books and Screens in Home Education

Screens aren’t the problem; they’re a tool. The key is to use them with purpose. Digital platforms can help with audiobooks, documentaries, and interactive learning, but deep reading needs a quiet space.

Try alternating digital and paper-based learning: watch a short video, then read a chapter or article about the same topic. This approach helps children connect visual and written learning. The goal isn’t to limit technology but to keep books central to your home ed routine.

The NHS also recommends screen-free time before bed to improve focus and sleep quality, a perfect slot for shared evening reading.

Keep Reading at the Heart of Home Education

Technology will continue to change, but thankfully, stories never lose their power. Reading develops patience, imagination, and emotional understanding, skills that can’t be downloaded or streamed.

By keeping books visible, accessible, and part of your daily rhythm, you show your children that reading isn’t homework, it’s life. In every home-education journey, reading remains the simplest, most powerful tool for learning and connection.

Thankfully, it’s something that in our house we all love to do. Coming into the ‘cosy season’, I can see that tucking under a blanket with a hot chocolate and good book is going to play a very large role in our Winter home ed sessions.