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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!

All Episodes

Engaging Reluctant Readers

Keep Kids Reading Over School Breaks: Low Pressure Tips for Busy Families

April 24, 2025 • Ellen Westbrook • Season 1 • Episode 5

Does your child’s reading routine fall apart over school breaks? Whether it’s summer vacation, winter break, or long weekends, keeping kids engaged with books can be tough—but it doesn’t have to feel like homework!

In this episode of the Engaging Reluctant Readers Podcast, Ellen Westbrook shares easy, fun, and low-pressure ways to keep reading in your child’s routine—even when life gets busy. From travel-friendly ideas to screen-free entertainment and book-based outings, you’ll discover practical strategies to help your child stay connected to books without resistance or overwhelm.

What You’ll Learn:

✔ Why reading during breaks matters for confidence and skill retention
✔ Quick, low-pressure ways to fit reading into travel or busy days
✔ How to make family reading time fun and pressure-free
✔ Creative ways to connect books with outings, vacations, and real life
✔ Tools for caregivers, camps, and local library support

⏳ Key Episode Highlights:
[00:01:26] Why reading over breaks matters
[00:02:48] Books as comfort, escape, and everyday habit
[00:03:22] Start small – 10–15 minutes a day is enough
[00:04:03] Make reading a share experience

[00:05:34] Let kids choose what they read
[00:05:59] Gamify reading with easy challenges
[00:06:22] Connect books with real-life outings and travel
[00:08:56] Encourage kids to keep a travel journal

[00:09:21] Get caregivers and camps involved

[00:10:24] Tap into library and bookstore events for fresh ideas

📖 Prefer to Read? Full blog post: https://engagingreluctantreaders.com/2025/04/24/reading-during-school-breaks/

📺 Prefer to Watch? YouTube video version: https://youtu.be/oPTC3oAN8qw

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