Image credit: Copyright Maisie Paradise Shearring
Reading can be a powerful source of comfort, imagination and connection. Yet for some children, particularly those who have struggled early on, books can feel unfamiliar, intimidating or closely linked to pressure. Before confidence can grow, many children need time to simply feel comfortable around books.
This focuses on getting comfortable with books, without expectation or demands. It is about familiarity, curiosity, and safety, rather than reading words correctly or reaching the end of a page.
It might begin with picking up a book and putting it down again. Turning pages at their own pace. Flicking backwards and forwards. Looking closely at pictures, colours or characters. Listening to someone else read without feeling the need to follow every word.
All of this counts. These early experiences help children learn that books are safe, interesting and something they are allowed to explore on their own terms.
There is no single right way to introduce reading, but small, pressure-free experiences can help children build familiarity and ease.
Explore books through illustrations and layout
Pictures can offer a way into stories without needing to read the text. Children may enjoy noticing details, talking about what they see, or choosing favourite images. This helps books feel accessible and inviting, even when words feel overwhelming.
Listen to stories being read aloud
Being read to allows children to enjoy stories without stress. They do not need to track every word or sit still. Listening while drawing, playing or relaxing can help children associate books with comfort rather than challenge.
Allow free handling of books
Let children flick through pages, pause, revisit favourite parts or leave a book unfinished. This freedom builds familiarity and trust. The aim is not progress or performance, but comfort.
Founded over 25 years ago by a mother and daughter-in-law team, Barrington Stoke creates brilliant, accessible books specifically designed for struggling, reluctant, and neurodivergent readers. Their books use dyslexia-friendly fonts, carefully chosen paper, shorter chapters, and expertly edited text, without losing depth, emotion, or storytelling quality.
Importantly, Barrington Stoke books are written by celebrated and award-winning children’s writers, with the same care and quality readers would expect from any great children’s book. The result is something quite special: books that feel grown-up, engaging, and age-appropriate, while genuinely easier to read.
For many families, these books provide a welcoming starting point. They invite curiosity and exploration, helping children rebuild a positive relationship with books before confidence and independence come later.
We are delighted to be partnering with Barrington Stoke to offer families the chance to win a set of five books, created with struggling, reluctant and neurodivergent readers in mind.
The winner will receive age-appropriate books suited to their child's reading stage.
Subscribe to SEND EDventures using the Barrington Stoke giveaway subscription box below. Simply enter your details, and you will be added to the prize draw.
Giveaway deadline: 16 February 2026
Good luck!
Terms and Conditions
• Open to UK residents aged 18.
• One entry per household.
• Entrants must subscribe using the Barrington Stoke giveaway subscription box.
• Winners will be selected at random and informed privately by email. If no response is received within 2 days, another winner will be selected.
• Prizes are non-exchangeable, and no cash alternative is available.
• SEND EDventures reserves the right to withdraw or amend the giveaway if necessary.
• By entering, you agree to receive SEND EDventures email updates.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general interest and should not be considered medical, therapeutic or educational advice. Families are encouraged to seek support from qualified professionals regarding individual needs or concerns.