Encouraging your tween to read can feel like a challenge, just ask any parent who’s heard that question, “Do I have to read?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Encouraging tweens to pick up a book can feel like trying to convince them that broccoli is wonderful. It is difficult to compete with social media and video games, not to mention streaming sites, but sit back and relax, we’ve got the perfect solution!

Reading goals may not instantly sound like the perfect option, but it’s all about how you position it. So many tweens see reading as something they have to do rather than something they want to do. But once you have them captivated, those digital distractions are bound to take second place. 

The trick is to make reading an adventure, something to look forward to, and the big secret? Create goals that are personal, fun, and offer rewards. Yes, we all like to celebrate our successes, and so do our kids! 

Why Tweens Resist Reading Goals (and How to Fix It)

Those traditional “read for 30 minutes” or “finish two chapters” goals can make reading feel like homework—structured and something you have to do. And let’s face it, tweens are quick to resist anything that feels like another task on their to-do list. Haven’t we all been there?

Let’s look at what the research says: according to Scholastic’s Kids & Family Reading Report, when kids choose their own books and read for enjoyment, they’re far more likely to develop consistent reading habits.² We told you there was good news! In other words, we need to let them choose their books and their goals. Asking your tween to set reading goals is a great way to get them to start thinking about what kind of books they will enjoy. 

So remember, it’s time to stop tracking time and start celebrating every page, paragraph, or story!

SMART Goals + Reading Journal for Kids

Step 1: Make Goals Feel Personal, Not Pressure-Filled

The best way to get your tween excited about reading is, as we said, to get them involved in setting their own goals. It’s a great opportunity to spend some quality time with your tween. Ask what kinds of stories they love (mysteries, fantasies, or laugh-out-loud comedies) and build from there. 

We recommend using the SMART goal framework: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Instead of saying that they need to read more, why not try  “Let’s each read one mystery book this month and chat about our favorite twists.” 

It’s clear, achievable, and includes you in the fun. Remember to keep the focus off deadlines and more on adventure and fun. Reading should feel like a challenge they want to take on, not one they have to complete.

Step 2: Create a Reading Tracker They’ll Actually Use

Just like us, kids love seeing progress, and visuals are the key to keeping them motivated. Another fun activity you can do together! Create colorful charts or use a reading bingo sheet to turn tracking into a game. They’re guaranteed to love it if you let them personalize it with stickers, doodles, and glitter! 

The Tween Reading Passport is another great option. It lets tweens log books, collect badges, and celebrate milestones in style. You can even pair it with our Sticker Collector Poster or Sticker Collector Water Bottle for an extra bit of excitement. Every sticker or filled page becomes a little victory, and before long, they’ll be flipping pages just to earn the next one!

Step 3: Add Rewards That Aren’t Candy

Celebrating milestones is so important. That positive reinforcement is a powerful motivator, and no, it doesn’t have to come in the form of sugar. There are so many other ways you can reward your tween; you just need to be creative.

Vouchers are great, and you can let them come up with ideas of their own. We’re thinking of things like letting them choose the next family movie, picking their favorite meal, a free pass to avoiding vegetables for one night, or staying up for an extra 30 minutes. The options are endless, from getting a trip to the bookstore or picking one of our Ready-to-Ship Book Boxes. 

Milestones need to be acknowledged and rewarded, and are easily done. Here are a few ideas to get you going: finish one book, plan a themed dinner based on it; finish three, host a mini “book club night” at home with snacks and games. These fun incentives keep reading exciting and turn goal-setting into a bonding experience.

Step 4: Build a Screen-Free Routine Around Reading

We all know screens are tough competition (you don’t have to tell us, but then we justify it because we’re looking at BookTok). But rather than banning devices, try adding a “wind-down reading time” after homework or before bed. This is a great way to create structure without conflict. 

Choose a time when everyone can unplug (and that includes parents) and read together. You can make it even more fun by reading out loud and giving each character their own voice or accent.

According to the American Psychological Association, consistent routines paired with positive emotions reinforce motivation in kids.¹ Making reading part of their evening routine helps it become a habit that sticks.

Step 5: Celebrate Wins and Reflect Together

Don’t let reading goals end at the last page; it is the perfect time to discuss their book. It’s like having a one-on-one book club. Ask fun questions that make them think, like, “Which character would you be?” or “What part would make the best movie scene?” or even “What do you think this character looks like?” 

You can record their answers in the Tween Reading Notebook or start a family reading journal where everyone adds their thoughts and favorite quotes. It’s a great way to celebrate progress and see how their reading tastes evolve over time. Plus, looking back on what they’ve accomplished builds pride and keeps motivation high.

30-Day Tween Reading Challenge

You can even sneak in a bit of structure with a dash of variety to keep goal-setting even more fun. Try creating a 30-day challenge. 

Try this four-week plan to get your tween on track:

• Week 1: Read outside for 15 minutes.

• Week 2: Try a genre you’ve never read before.

• Week 3: Read with a sibling or a friend and talk about it.

• Week 4: Act out your favorite scene or draw your favorite character.

Remember to keep the focus on creativity and fun. Each week adds a new twist that keeps the challenge fresh and exciting.

How Many Pages Should a Tween Read a Day?

There’s no magic number, but a good rule of thumb is 15–30 minutes a day or about 10–20 pages, depending on attention span and interest level. The goal isn’t to read faster, it’s to read regularly. 

Consistency builds confidence, and confidence builds a love for stories. Our selection of tween ready-to-ship book boxes is perfect for this stage. Not only are they packed with an exciting novel and fun activities, but it’s those surprise gifts that will keep them motivated to read just that extra bit more! Bringing stories to life is what we do best!

From Goals to Great Adventures

Reading goals shouldn’t feel like schoolwork; they should be loads of fun, spark imagination, laughter, and curiosity. When tweens feel involved, supported, and celebrated, their reading journeys will become something they love and can’t wait to do. With a Tween Book Subscription Box, you can quickly turn a “have to” into “can’t wait to.” 

Start their reading adventure today, one goal, one story, one box at a time. For more ideas to keep the fun going, check out Tween Reading Challenges for 2025: Fun Ways to Encourage Young Readers and Year-Round Reading Challenges to Keep Kids Engaged.

Happy reading from all of us at Once Upon a Book Club!