Engaging Reluctant Readers
Tired of the nightly reading battles? Struggling to get your child to open a book because they refuse to read at all costs? Maybe they can read but just don’t want to, or perhaps they struggle with the basics, making reading feel frustrating and exhausting. Or maybe books just can’t compete with screens, sports, or other distractions. No matter the reason, you’re not alone—and more importantly, you’re not failing as a parent.
Welcome to Engaging Reluctant Readers—the podcast for book-loving moms raising reluctant readers. Hosted by Ellen Westbrook, a Literacy Coach (and recovering reluctant reader herself!), this show is here to help you transform your child’s reading journey from dread to must-be read and rediscover family reading fun along the way.
As a mom of two high-energy boys with a degree in Elementary Education, Ellen gets it—the frustration, the worry, and the endless search for ways to make books click for your child. She’s here to bridge the gap between your love of reading and your kiddo’s resistance, helping you understand why they struggle and, more importantly, what actually works.
You won’t find complicated reading strategies or one-size-fits-all advice here. Instead, Ellen shares real-life strategies that fit into your busy days and make reading feel fun instead of forced. From creative ways to build stamina, confidence, and reading skills to strategies that make books more engaging and spark a genuine love of reading, every episode is designed to help you make real progress—without the fights, tears, or frustration.
Each episode is under 30 minutes, packed with actionable tips, and released every Thursday—so you can get quick wins without adding more to your already-full plate.
Because reading should feel fun, not like a chore—and every step forward, no matter how small, is worth celebrating.
Hit follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode, and let’s rediscover family reading fun—together!
Engaging Reluctant Readers
Got a Reluctant Reader? This Podcast is for You! (Trailer)
Welcome to the Engaging Reluctant Readers podcast! I'm your host, Ellen Westbrook and I'm so excited to share what's coming soon.
I can't wait to help you transform your child's reading journey from dread to must-be read—all while rediscovering family reading fun.
Every Thursday, I'll bring you quick, practical strategies to help your child build skills, gain confidence, stay engaged, and actually enjoy reading—without the fights or frustration.
Be sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode! Check the show notes for important links and follow me on Instagram (@engagingreluctantreaders) for behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks, and updates leading up to the podcast launch.
Until the next episode, happy reading!
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It helps get this podcast out in front of more moms that need to hear it, so we can help more reluctant readers learn to love books and put an end to the nightly battles around reading!
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[00:00:00] Hey there. Welcome to the Engaging Reluctant Readers podcast, where I help take your child's reading journey from dread to must be read. I'm Ellen, your family's literacy coach, an elementary education major, and a recovering reluctant reader. As a mom of two high-energy boys who've journeyed from book loving to resistant and back again, I know first hand the challenges of inspiring a love of reading in our kiddos.
[00:00:26] But here's the thing, you don't have to go it alone. Join me every week as we dive deep into strategies, insights, and tips to engage even the most stubborn of readers. I'm here to bridge the gap between you and your reluctant reader by offering personalized solutions that bring back the joy of family reading.
[00:00:42] So what can you expect? New episodes drop every Thursday with practical strategies, creative tips for building a reader friendly environment, and heartfelt stories from my own journey. Whether you're looking to motivate your child or rediscover the joy of family reading time, I've got you covered. I know your time is precious, so most episodes are 20 to 30 minutes, perfect for busy moms.
[00:01:01] And don't worry, I'll do my best to slow down my fast talking so you can still speed me up to 1. 5x or 2x, if that's your style. You can catch the Engaging Reluctant Readers podcast for free on all major platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.. So, if you're ready to rediscover family reading, fun, and empower your child to embrace the magic of books, hit the subscribe button now.
[00:01:23] Let's embark on this exciting journey together. Remember, it's not just about reading. It's about igniting a lifelong love of learning. I can't wait to connect with you. Until then, happy reading!