How to Make Reading Aloud Fun (even if you’re not confident)

Many parents feel self-conscious when reading aloud, worrying they don’t have the right voice, fluency, or storytelling skills. The good news? You don’t need to be an actor or a professional narrator—your child simply loves hearing your voice and spending time with you. So forget about Oscar-winning performances, and aim for connection, not perfection.

Simple Ways to Make Reading Aloud Enjoyable

1. Choose Books You Both Enjoy

There are a lot of books out there and the truth is that you are going to enjoy reading some more than others so take your time to find books you both enjoy. Look for books with engaging illustrations, fun characters, or topics that interest you both. Don’t be afraid to reread favourites; children love repetition and will love it if you suggest reading a book they enjoy! And remember, if you’re excited about the story, your child will be too.

2. Keep It Short and Sweet

Reading aloud doesn’t have to take hours. A few minutes here and there, (at bedtime, during bathtime, or while waiting for dinner), is enough to create a positive habit.

3. Use Expression, Not Perfection

Many parents feel pressure to ‘perform’ when reading aloud. That pressure can put many off reading to their child. But the key is simply using a little expression - raising your voice slightly for excitement, pausing for dramatic moments, or softening your tone for calm scenes, not unlike the way we talk in real-life situations. Small changes make a big difference! You don’t have to do different voices for each character and try a hundred accents. Keep it simple.

4. Let Your Child Get Involved

Encourage your child to:

• Turn the pages

• Guess what happens next

• Point out details in pictures

• Repeat fun phrases or rhymes

• Make the noises for animals or vehicles

This makes reading interactive and engaging.

5. Use Funny Voices (But Only If You Want To!)

Okay, I know I said earlier that you don’t have to do lots of different voices but if you want to go for it. Voices can be fun. All three of my children loved a book called ‘Nicketty-Nacketty, noo-noo-noo’ and part of the reason was the Scottish accent I did when reading it. I wouldn’t have won any prizes for my attempt (despite living in Scotland for a while) but the kids didn’t care. So, do voices if you want, but if you feel silly, remember that simply changing your pace or emphasising keywords will keep your child engaged.

6. Make It Part of Your Routine

Consistency is a key part of developing a love of books and reading and ensuring your child gets all the benefits. Reading aloud at the same time each day - like before bed or after school - helps make it a habit, and your child will come to look forward to it.

7. Don’t Worry About Mistakes

Stumbled on a word? Skipped a page? No problem! Kids won’t mind, and they’ll still benefit from the experience. The most important thing is sharing stories together. Most of us spend very little time reading out loud to others so when you first start it can feel a little tricky. I think stumbling over a word is a good reminder to children that even adults find it tricky sometimes and helps them to be kinder to themselves as they learn to read. Like most things in life, the more you do it the better you’ll get.

Final Thoughts

Reading aloud isn’t about perfection - it’s about spending time together, nurturing your child’s love for books, and making reading a fun, stress-free experience. Your child will love this time with you, and remember they grow up fast, one day you’ll find yourself missing this daily storytime. So, grab a book, relax, and enjoy the moment.