(BPT) - While kids today have more entertainment choices than ever, books still hold incredible power to inspire, engage and grow young minds. The opportunity isn't lost — it's actually wide open. With the right approach, parents and families can help make reading just as exciting and rewarding as anything on a screen.
Reading isn't just about academics. It builds imagination, strengthens focus and helps kids better understand the world and people around them. From developing critical thinking skills to building empathy, books play a vital role in a child's overall growth.
And here's the good news: Many kids are still reading — and enjoying it. With the right encouragement, every child can find books that capture their interest and keep them coming back for more.
For more than 15 years, Renaissance, a global leader in education technology, has published the "What Kids Are Reading" report. The new 2026 edition highlights insights from 4.7 million students who read 161 million books — proving that when kids are engaged, they will read.
"There is no reason why reading can't be as exciting for students as scrolling social media feeds," said Dr. Gene Kerns, chief academic officer at Renaissance. "They just need to understand reading's appeal."
What parents need to know about book reading
The best way to improve reading skills is to read more. Becoming a better reader is fostered through more reading, and daily reading sessions have been shown to build those vital skills.
"Reading skill develops through reading itself, and there's no shortcut around extensive practice with connected text," said literacy and language expert Dr. Tiffany Hogan. "Children need opportunities to read frequently, across genres and formats, in school and beyond."
Older kids need to read, too. As kids get older, they often read less. The "What Kids Are Reading" data show that most elementary students read 15 or more books per school year, but they often read fewer in middle school and beyond.
"Engagement fuels persistence, and persistence builds proficiency," Hogan said. "Kids need texts that are both accessible and challenging — books they can successfully navigate while still encountering new vocabulary, complex sentence structures and sophisticated ideas."
Digital reading counts. Book reading experiences support your child's development, regardless of the medium. To increase your child's access to interesting books, consider digital formats.
"While we should remain thoughtful about screen time and possible digital distraction, digital platforms can expand access, scaffold struggling readers and meet children where their literacy lives increasingly unfold," Hogan said.
If your school uses Renaissance products, your kids may be able to access books digitally using the myON platform or use Accelerated Reader to find books that match their interests, demonstrate comprehension and track progress toward personalized reading goals.
What parents can do right now
Make reading as engaging as scrolling. Kids are drawn to what feels fun and rewarding. Reading can be just as exciting when kids discover stories, characters and topics they love. The key is helping them find that connection.
Encourage daily reading habits. Just 15 minutes a day can make a big difference. Consistent reading builds confidence, stamina and skill over time.
Support reading at every age. As kids grow older, their reading habits often decline — but their need for strong literacy skills only increases. Keeping reading relevant and interesting during middle and high school years is critical.
Embrace both print and digital. Books come in many formats, and digital platforms can expand access and meet kids where they are. The goal is simple: more reading, in any format.
Four simple ways to get kids reading more
Let them read what they love. Whether it's graphic novels, fantasy, sports or even books slightly below their current grade level, reading for enjoyment builds confidence and positive habits.
Give them choice. When kids choose their own books, they're more invested. Trips to the library or browsing online together can help them discover new favorites. You might also consider asking your favorite AI tool for book suggestions, based on your child's age and interests. (The "What Kids Are Reading" report includes several "We Asked AI" features that highlight favorite genres and titles at different grade levels.)
Set small, achievable goals. Start with a goal like 15 minutes of daily reading. Progress builds momentum — and confidence.
Create a reading culture at home. Kids notice what adults do. When they see you reading and talking about books, it reinforces that reading matters.
The next step: Let's get kids reading
Now is the perfect time to help your child build a lifelong reading habit. Start small, stay consistent and make reading fun.
Explore the latest insights, discover popular titles by age and interest and find new ways to inspire your child by downloading the new "What Kids Are Reading" report at renaissance.com/resources/what-kids-are-reading.
Because when kids read more, they grow more — in every way that matters.
