If your child has dyslexia and resists reading, you’re not alone. Many parents of kids with learning differences struggle to find reading activities that don’t lead to tears or tantrums. The truth is: reading can be fun — especially when it doesn’t feel like schoolwork.

In this post, you’ll find 10 simple, reading activities to support your child’s reading skills without pressure or boredom.

1. Scavenger Hunt Reading

My kids loved when I would create a scavenger hunt with short reading clues hidden around the house. Each clue leads to the next. Keep clues short, silly, or even themed (pirates, space missions, animals, etc.).

Why it works: Movement and curiosity engage kids while exposing them to reading in short, non-intimidating bursts.

2. Audiobook + Read-Along Combo

Pair audiobooks with physical books. Let your child follow along in the book as they listen to a narrator. This activity is great for building fluency and word recognition.

Need an audio book resource? Try: Learning Ally, Audible, or Epic!

3. Comic Books and Graphic Novels

These visual formats are a favorite for many reluctant readers. Bold artwork and minimal text make stories more digestible and exciting. Many libraries now have entire sections dedicated to graphic novels. Ask your librarian if you can’t find it. I like to go into the library and choose the first book of a few different series to see which ones my kids enjoy.

See this post for a list of recommended family-friendly graphic novels by age range.

4. Cooking with Recipes

Reading becomes practical (and tasty!) when following a recipe together. Let your child read and help with measurements, sequencing, and kitchen tasks.

Adapt it: Use picture recipes or print in large fonts for easier reading.

5. Interactive Story Apps

These combine audio, visuals, and text in a dynamic, game-like environment. Great for iPads or tablets.

Apps to try: Homer, FarFaria, Novel Effect.

6. Reader’s Theater

Acting out short scripts at home as a family builds confidence and makes reading expressive and silly. Choose scripts that suit your child’s humor and interests.

Resources:

Readers Theater All Year: This site provides a wide range of printable scripts categorized by theme and reading level.

Teachers Pay Teachers: Search for readers theater scripts.

Tip: Highlight their lines so they know what to read and when.

7. “You Read to Me, I’ll Read to You”

This technique (paired reading) is simple: take turns reading a sentence, page, or paragraph. It’s cooperative and supportive.

Book series to try: You Read to Me, I’ll Read to You by Mary Ann Hoberman.

8. Label the World

Label everyday items in your home with sticky notes or index cards. Great for environmental print recognition and sight word exposure.

Variation: Create funny or theme-based labels to keep it fresh.

9. Joke and Riddle Time

My kids LOVED joke books. Humor definitely boosts motivation! Let your child read a daily joke or riddle out loud at dinner or breakfast.

Books to try: Laugh-Out-Loud Jokes for Kids by Rob Elliott.

10. Create a Personal Word Wall

Build a visual wall of “words I know” using index cards or sticky notes. Include favorite topics (animals, foods, characters). Let them decorate it!

Why it works: It turns reading into a personal, creative achievement instead of a task.

Bonus Activity: Get our free summer reading kit!

Set up a fun summer reading program with our free summer reading kit!

Support Reading Without the Struggle

Reading doesn’t have to feel like school to be effective. With the right activities and encouragement, even the most reluctant readers with dyslexia can begin to find joy and success in reading.

Focus on small wins, follow your child’s interests, and keep the mood light. Confidence grows when kids feel safe and supported — and that’s where real learning begins.

Want more ideas like this?

📥 Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly tips, free resources, and product recommendations designed especially for homeschooling families supporting children with dyslexia and ADHD.