Student Wellbeing

The Benefits of Reading at Home for Wellbeing

This Book Week, we are celebrating the wonderful world of books and the many ways reading can support our children’s wellbeing.

Reading is more than just an important part of learning. Reading for pleasure at home can help children relax, feel connected, develop empathy and build positive habits that support their mental health and wellbeing.

 Reading Helps Children Relax

After a busy day at school, reading a favourite book can provide children with a quiet opportunity to slow down and unwind. Sharing a story together or allowing children to enjoy a few peaceful minutes with a book can help create a calm transition from the busy day to bedtime.

 Reading Helps Children Understand Feelings

Stories introduce children to characters who experience different emotions, challenges and experiences. As children follow these characters, they can begin to recognise and understand feelings in themselves and others. Reading can therefore help develop empathy, emotional understanding and kindness.

 Reading Helps Children Feel Connected

Reading together is a wonderful way for families to spend time with one another. Whether it is sharing a bedtime story, talking about a favourite character or laughing together over a funny book, these moments help strengthen relationships and create a sense of belonging.

 Reading Can Support Better Sleep

Making reading part of a regular bedtime routine can help children settle and prepare for sleep. Turning off screens and spending some quiet time with a book can create a relaxing routine that signals to the brain that it is time to wind down.

 Reading Builds Confidence and Imagination

Books allow children to explore new worlds, ideas and experiences. As children discover books they enjoy and become more confident readers, they develop a sense of achievement while also building their imagination and curiosity. Make Reading Part of Your Family Routine

You don't need to read for hours to make a difference. Even 10–15 minutes of reading together each day can become a special family habit.

This Book Week, we encourage families to:

•  Let children choose books they are interested in.
•  Create a comfortable and relaxing reading space at home.
•  Read together and talk about the story.
•  Ask children how a character might be feeling.
•  Enjoy reading at bedtime as part of a calming routine.
• Remember that reading for pleasure should be enjoyable, not a chore.

So, this Book Week, let’s celebrate not only what reading teaches our children, but how a good book can help them feel calm, connected, curious and happy.

Turn a page, share a story and make time for reading together at home!