LEAven Blog

As educators and parents, we want all our students to develop a love for reading. However, when it comes to boys, this can be easier said than done. Research consistently shows that boys tend to lag behind girls in reading proficiency and motivation. The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), the nation’s report card, has long documented gender discrepancies on literacy tests, noting that boys underperform girls significantly on all literacy skills tests (Brozo et al., 2014; NAEP, 2023). Regardless of the amount of research conducted in the past three decades, little has changed to help boys grow as readers (Gurian Institute, 2020, NAEP, 2023). Literacy is an essential factor that plays a starring role in a boy’s future success (NCREL, 2005). Success in literacy not only impacts academic success, but it leads to broader and varied career and life opportunities. Strong literacy skills are essential to every phase of life. Unfortunately, 40 percent of employers say that high school graduates do not have the necessary literacy level necessary to compete (Clark, 2016). Literacy can offer boys more life options. As a result, every effort to engage boys in reading and writing must be made to impact both their school experience and their future.

Understanding why boys face unique challenges in the literacy process and finding ways to engage them can transform their reading journey and set them up for lifelong success.

In this post, we’ll explore some common challenges boys face with reading and provide practical strategies for educators and parents to help ignite a passion for reading.

The Challenges Boys Face in Reading

Limited Interest in Traditional Reading Materials
Boys are often less interested in fiction, especially stories centered around relationships and emotions. They may prefer action-packed, humorous, or informational texts, which are less commonly offered in school reading lists (Smith & Wilhelm, 2002). This disconnect can lead to disengagement from the reading process.

Preference for Physical Activity
Boys often have higher energy levels and a need for physical movement, making it difficult for them to sit still and focus on reading for long periods. They may be more interested in hands-on, active learning experiences (Brozo, 2002; Wilhelm et al., 2014).

Reading Not Aligned with Personal Interests
Boys are naturally curious and often have strong, specific interests (like sports, technology, animals, or historical events). When reading materials don’t align with these interests, they may find reading irrelevant or boring (Wilhelm et al., 2014).

Strategies to Engage Boys in Reading

The good news is that there are plenty of ways to address these challenges and help boys develop a love for reading. Here are some effective strategies for educators and parents:

Offer a Variety of Reading Materials

• Nonfiction Texts: Boys are often drawn to nonfiction, especially if it covers topics they’re passionate about. Books about sports, animals, science experiments, history, and real-life adventures can be particularly engaging (Fisher & Frey, 2012) Tech or How-to manuals are also good options, too.
• Graphic Novels and Comics: These visual formats can be more appealing to boys and help improve their reading skills. The combination of images and text can both support comprehension and keep their interest (Gavigan, 2011). Graphic novels can also be paired with traditional texts to help support reading comprehension.
• Magazines and Newspapers: Shorter articles can be less intimidating than a full-length book and can cater to their specific interests.
• Verse novels: Like graphic novels and comics, verse novels are quick to read. The greater amount of white space and fewer words on a page can make the text less intimidating for the reader. Additionally, since verse novels are quicker reads than traditional novels, they are a great resource for building the confidence of struggling or reluctant readers.

Incorporate Technology

• Audiobooks and Podcasts: Listening to stories can help boys who struggle with reading fluency still enjoy rich narratives. Audiobooks can also be paired with physical books to support their reading development.
• Educational Apps and E-Readers: Digital platforms that include interactive elements, such as highlighting words as they are read aloud or offering embedded videos, can make reading more dynamic and engaging (Harvey et al., 2013).

Create a Reading-Friendly Environment

• Choice and Autonomy: Choice is a powerful motivator. Giving them the freedom to choose their own books for independent reading—based on their interests—can greatly increase their motivation (Ivey & Broaddus, 2001; Wilhelm et al., 2014).

Incorporate Movement and Hands-On Activities

• Interactive Read-Alouds: Use books that involve actions or sound effects, allowing boys to get physically involved while listening to a story. This can keep them engaged and excited about the reading process (Walther, 2019).
• Reading and Physical Play: Integrate reading with physical activities, like a scavenger hunt that involves reading clues or acting out scenes from a book or enactment strategies that bring a story alive (Wilhelm, 2002).

Connect Reading to Real-Life Experiences

• Experiential Learning: Take trips related to the books or materials that they are reading (e.g., visiting a science museum after reading about dinosaurs or the waste management system after studying the water cycle). This helps make reading feel more relevant and exciting.
• Project-Based Learning: Encourage boys to read as part of larger projects, such as researching a topic they are interested in and then creating something (like a poster, model, or presentation) based on what they’ve learned.

Promote Male Reading Role Models

• Dads, Uncles, and Older Brothers: Role models are powerful. Encourage male family members to read with boys, showing them that reading is not just for girls. Even 10-15 minutes of reading together can make a big difference.
• Male Teachers and Librarians: Male educators can promote reading by sharing their favorite books and reading materials. Guest readers and book talks led by male role models can also be effective.

Celebrate Reading Achievements

• Reading Challenges and Competitions: Boys often respond well to a bit of competition. Create reading challenges where boys can earn rewards for reaching certain milestones.

Conclusion

Engaging boys in reading doesn’t have to be a challenge. By understanding their unique interests, energy levels, and preferences, we can tailor our approach to meet their needs. Whether it’s through offering a variety of reading materials, incorporating technology, or creating hands-on, active learning experiences, we can help boys see reading not just as a task, but as an adventure waiting to unfold.

Remember: The goal is not just to get boys to read but to help them find joy in the process. When boys are motivated and excited about reading, they’re more likely to develop the skills and habits that will serve them well throughout their lives. What strategies have you found effective for engaging boys in reading?