Many parents today are wondering how to teach their child to read when distractions like screens are everywhere. One Redditor asked a simple but loaded question: “Are parents just not teaching their kids how to read anymore?”
What followed was a flood of honest replies—some shocked, some frustrated, others quietly reflective. But they all agreed on one thing: something is seriously off with how today’s kids are learning to read.
This blog breaks down what real users are seeing in their homes, schools, and communities—and shares what some are doing about it. Just real talk from real people.
1. Kids Struggling with the Basics
One of the top comments shared a moment of disbelief: a 7-year-old who couldn’t read “cat.” Others chimed in with similar stories—kids unable to follow the simplest instructions because they couldn’t recognize short words like “go” or “stop.”
A few users shared how they had to step in to help their nieces, nephews, or neighbor’s kids read even the most basic sentences. Some had to explain every single word.
It wasn’t a one-off. The stories came from different places, but the issue sounded the same—many kids today aren’t picking up reading in the early years like before.
2. When YouTube Raises the Child
Several Redditors pointed fingers at screens—and not in a subtle way.
Many mentioned kids glued to iPads, binge-watching YouTube or endlessly scrolling on phones. They know how to open apps, skip ads, and search for videos—but can’t read a single sentence without help.
Some users felt screen time was replacing real human interaction. One pointed out that kids can spend five hours on Roblox but struggle to read the word “Play.”
The common theme? Technology isn’t the enemy—but without balance, it’s making reading feel optional instead of essential.
3. “I Taught Myself with Cereal Boxes”
A powerful part of the thread came from older Redditors reflecting on their childhoods.
One remembered how they learned to read by staring at cereal boxes during breakfast. Others said they picked up books before school age because their parents read with them—or simply made reading a normal part of life.
That everyday exposure mattered. Whether it was menus, road signs, or comic books, kids back then learned from everything around them. And it wasn’t forced—it was just part of growing up.
Read Also: How to Tell a Parent the Truth About Their Child
4. Bedtime Stories: A Lost Tradition
Redditors spoke warmly about their childhood routines—being read to every night before bed.
Some admitted they used to do the same with their kids but stopped due to exhaustion, work stress, or simply getting out of the habit.
A few even shared regret. One said they didn’t realize how important those moments were until their child started struggling with reading.
The bedtime story isn’t just cozy—it’s a crucial part of language learning. And Reddit parents are realizing how much it’s been pushed aside.
5. The “It’s the School’s Job” Mentality
Multiple users shared that they had assumed schools would take care of teaching reading.
But others pushed back hard—saying that relying fully on schools misses the point. Kids need exposure before they even start kindergarten. Teachers can help—but they can’t replace those early years at home.
One parent said they didn’t even think to start reading with their child until a teacher flagged it. Others admitted they hadn’t realized how much home reading matters until they saw the gaps.
6. Reading ≠ Understanding
Some Redditors made an important distinction: even when kids can sound out words, they often don’t understand what they’re reading.
A few users shared stories of kids who could read aloud but had no idea what the sentence meant.
It’s not just about reading letters. It’s about connecting the dots, asking questions, and understanding meaning—and that’s something only engaged adults can help with.
Reading Tips for Parents: What’s Actually Working at Home
While many shared concerns and frustrations, others offered practical things that are actually working in their homes. Based on several comments and suggestions in the thread, here are some of the best parent-tested tips that may help you support your child’s early literacy journey:
1. Make reading part of everyday life, not a separate task.
Some parents found success by simply including reading in regular daily activities. For example, instead of forcing book time, they encouraged their kids to read game instructions, captions on videos, or even food labels—anything to make reading feel useful and natural.
2. Use what your child already enjoys.
Rather than fighting over screen time, one suggestion was to mix reading into what kids already love—like video games. Ask them to read in-game instructions or dialogue out loud. One parent said they offered game currency as a reward for completing reading tasks.
3. Let kids choose what they read.
Several comments stressed that letting children pick their own books—whether it’s comics, graphic novels, or joke books—can build positive associations with reading. If they’re interested, they’ll be more likely to stick with it.
4. Bring back the bedtime story—no matter their age.
A few parents admitted they had stopped reading to their kids once they could read on their own. But others found that reading aloud—even to older kids—still made a huge difference. It’s not just about learning; it’s about bonding.
5. Ease off the screens—but gently.
Instead of cutting screens cold turkey, one approach was to balance it out. Set limits slowly. Replace part of screen time with shared reading time. One parent mentioned doing 15 minutes of reading together before any YouTube time was allowed.
6. Talk about what they’re reading.
It’s not just about decoding words—kids need to understand what they read. Some parents make a habit of asking questions during and after a story: “What do you think will happen next?” or “Why did that character do that?” It turns reading into a conversation.
7. Be patient. Really patient.
One powerful reminder repeated by a few users: every kid is different. Some pick it up early, others need more time. Avoid turning reading into pressure or punishment. Celebrate the small wins.
Is it too late if my child is already behind in reading?
No, it’s not too late. Several parents shared stories of older kids who improved once reading became part of the home routine again. Patience and consistent effort were key.
I’m not a strong reader myself—can I still help my child?
Yes. Even if you’re not confident, sitting with your child, using audiobooks, or pointing at pictures can still support their reading development. Your effort matters more than perfection.
These tips aren’t part of some official program. They’re just things that have worked for parents dealing with the same struggles. Try a few, adjust based on your child’s personality, and don’t worry if it takes time. The key is making reading feel rewarding—not required.
The stories in this thread aren’t just complaints. They’re warnings. They’re wake-up calls.
Kids aren’t just falling behind in reading—they’re missing the chance to fall in love with it.
Reddit parents made it clear: it starts at home. Not with apps, not with tests, not with expensive programs. Just with books, time, and a little intention.
