Helping Children Read...

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How Parents Who Cannot Read Can Still Teach and Encourage Their Children to Read

In many Liberian homes, both parents may not have learned to read or may struggle to read well. Yet every parent wants their children to grow wiser and live better lives. Reading is one of the most important tools to make that dream possible. The good news is that even if you cannot read, you can still help your children develop strong reading habits. Your attitude, support, and involvement matter more than your own reading skills.

1. Show the value of reading every day.

Children learn what they see. If they see that you respect reading, they will too. Tell your children that reading helps people learn new things, get better jobs, and make good choices. Share examples from your community—like a teacher, nurse, or shopkeeper who can read and write. Let them know that education can open many doors.

2. Create a “reading place” at home.

You don’t need money to create a reading space. Choose a clean, quiet corner where your child can sit with books or papers. Even if the materials are old newspapers, schoolbooks, or church leaflets, keep them in one place. When your child brings a schoolbook home, sit beside them as they read aloud. You don’t have to understand everything; your presence shows you care.

3. Use pictures, stories, and songs.

Reading begins with imagination and understanding. Tell your children traditional stories, folktales, or Bible stories you remember. Ask them to tell the story back to you or draw what they heard. This helps them think about words and meaning. You can also use songs and rhymes—singing helps children learn rhythm, sounds, and language patterns.

4. Listen to reading together.

Many radios and smartphones play children’s stories, news, or Bible lessons. Let your child listen with you. Ask them afterward what they heard. Questions like “Who was in the story?” or “What happened next?” help build comprehension. If you have access to phones, use apps or platforms like OneLiberia.ai, where you can hear stories and lessons designed for Liberian families.

5. Get help from others.

Ask teachers, older students, or neighbors who can read to spend a little time reading with your child. Most people are happy to help, especially when they see a parent trying. You can also form small reading groups in your community. When children read together, they encourage one another.

6. Praise effort, not perfection.

Every time your child reads a sentence, sounds out a new word, or brings home a book, show joy and pride. A simple “You are doing well!” or “I am proud of you!” means a lot. Encouragement keeps a child motivated and eager to improve.

Even if both parents cannot read, their love and guidance can still light the path toward learning. By creating a home that values stories, questions, and learning, you build a foundation stronger than any textbook. When your children grow to read, they will also help teach you—and together, your family will rise.