Discover fun reading games for kids that build phonics, comprehension, and confidence. No fancy tools needed, just play, laughter, and great books

If you've ever tried to get your child to sit still and read after a long day of school or lessons, activities and appointments, or even just a day outside having fun, you'll know it's not always easy. 

But did you know that reading doesn't need to feel like a “sit down and concentrate” activity, and it could actually feel like play?

We’ve got you covered with some fun reading games for kids to help turn reading into play, and learning into an adventure.

Turn reading into play

Learning sticks better when it's fun. And movement can go a long way to help bring the party. 

Try playing “I Spy”, but with a twist: I spy with my little eye… something that starts with B! Or a colour, fruit, or action word, but apply it to what you’re reading on the current page you’re on. This helps keep them nice and engaged, ready to find the exact word you’re spying.

You could also add a reading rule to your hopscotch game. Get them to hop while spelling a word aloud. 

Even a classic game like Snakes and Ladders can become a literacy boost if each turn involves reading (or spelling out) a simple word or sentence first.

Recent studies have shown that physical activity can improve young children's academic performance, with maths and reading the subjects most influenced by physical activity due to how it enhances basic cognitive functions related to attention and memory.

Build reading skills through games

Games are a brilliant way to strengthen phonics and word recognition. 

Try “Say and Stomp”: stomp if two words rhyme. 

Or send them on a Letter Hunt around the house. You can also play “What starts with…” using everyday objects, like What starts with a T? Toothbrush! Towel! TV! Table! The list is endless, and can even allow you to swap roles, letting your child choose a letter, and you hunt for items (bonus points if you try to trick them with incorrect items). 

And it doesn't just “sound nice”. Studies have found that children who regularly engage in phonemic games develop stronger early reading skills.

Games for better comprehension

For understanding and memory, try a Reading Scavenger Hunt using clues hidden in a book.

Or pause during story time to ask questions and make predictions. Even finding a “secret word” on a page can turn reading into an adventure.

Research has indicated that shared book reading can support a broad range of early language skills, including vocabulary growth, narrative and conversation skills, print awareness, future reading ability, and phonological awareness.

So keep them engaged for longer, and see how they reap the rewards across a bunch of powerful language and reading skills.

And the great thing is, you don’t need special tools or hours of free time, just a simple game, a bit of play, and watch your little reader’s reading confidence grow, one joyful moment at a time.

Ready for more reading fun? Get your first 3 books for free or unlock the entire Nooksy library for your whole family, for life, at 90% off. Head to the Nooksy App to explore our beautifully curated collection of children’s books today.