Want Kids to Read More? An Expert Shares the Low-Cost Tips That Work (Video)
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Reading & Literacy Video

Want Kids to Read More? An Expert Shares the Low-Cost Tips That Work (Video)

By Stephen Sawchuk, Marvin Joseph & Emily Wright — October 19, 2026 1 min read
Animated illustration of children's hands holding books in a circle in the center of the frame. They pop in one by one and then pop out in the opposite direction one at a time.
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Pizza parties, book logs, gold stars—all longstanding ways schools have tried to encourage students to read. But what are some steps schools can take to help kids develop the internal motivation to read widely and read often?

In this video, Lauren Capotosto, an associate professor of education at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Mass., outlines some of these steps for school leaders and educators. It starts with making books widely available—and continues with helping kids lean into the power of books, both individually and as part of their social engagement with other students.

Coverage of teaching, curriculum and instruction, and other key issues is supported by a grant from the Walton Family Foundation. Education Week retains sole editorial control over the content of this coverage.

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