How Parenting Styles Shape a Child’s Relationship with Reading

Introduction

The way we parent influences more than just behaviour—it shapes our children's mindset, habits, and even how they relate to books. While we all want our children to become readers, the journey towards that love for books often reflects the environment created at home. Let’s explore how different parenting styles affect a child’s reading habits and attitudes.

1. The Authoritative Parent: Warm and Structured

Style Summary:

Authoritative parents balance clear boundaries with emotional warmth. They are involved, supportive, and encourage independence while guiding choices.

Reading Reflection:

Children raised in this environment are often exposed to books at an early age and consistently.

These parents:

·        Make reading part of the daily routine.

·        Offer choices, letting the child pick books they enjoy.

·        Discuss stories to develop comprehension and connection.

Since the atmosphere around reading is positive and engaging, kids usually grow up seeing books as fun, safe, and valuable companions.

2. The Authoritarian Parent: High Demands, Low Flexibility

Style Summary:

This style is rooted in discipline and strict rules. There is little room for the child’s voice, and expectations are often non-negotiable.

Reading Reflection:

For these children, reading can feel like a task rather than an enjoyable activity. They may:

·        Read only what’s assigned or expected.

·        Feel pressure to achieve academically through reading.

·        Miss out on creative or emotional connections to stories.

While these children may become technically skilled readers, they might not develop a deep emotional attachment to reading.

3. The Permissive Parent: Easy-going and Indulgent

Style Summary:

Permissive parents are nurturing but set few rules or expectations. They give children a lot of freedom with limited guidance.

Reading Reflection:

In these homes, books may be available, but the routines surrounding reading may be inconsistent.

Children may:

·        Read only when they feel like it, leading to uneven habits.

·        Be more attracted to screens or other forms of entertainment.

·        Lack the discipline needed to explore books beyond surface interest.

These kids might enjoy books occasionally, but reading is unlikely to become a steady habit without some structure.

4. The Uninvolved Parent: Disconnected and Detached

Style Summary:

Uninvolved parents provide for physical needs but are emotionally or mentally distant. They show little interest in the child’s daily activities or development.

Reading Reflection:

Children in such environments often don’t receive encouragement to read. They may:

·        Lack access to books or storytelling.

·        Not see reading modelled by adults.

·        Feel unmotivated or unprepared for reading tasks at school.

Without support, books may seem irrelevant, making it hard for the child to develop reading skills or interest.

Final Thoughts: Parenting Choices, Reading Outcomes

A child’s reading journey is shaped by more than just the books around them—it’s shaped by how those books are introduced, encouraged, and celebrated. Among the four parenting styles, the authoritative approach—with its balance of warmth and guidance—most consistently nurtures a genuine love for reading.

But parenting isn’t set in stone. Any parent, regardless of style, can start weaving reading into the day with small steps: reading aloud, offering book choices, and showing enthusiasm for stories.

Remember, it’s not just about raising a reader—it’s about raising a child who sees books as trusted friends and windows to the world.

Have you noticed how your parenting style affects your child’s reading habits? Share your insights in the comments.