When Should I Worry If My Child Can’t Read Yet? A Parent’s Guide to Late Readers

Is your 6, 7 or even 8-year-old still struggling to read? You’re not alone. Here’s what’s normal, what’s not, and what actually helps.

First, Let’s Breathe: Late Reading Isn’t Always a Problem

Reading isn’t a race – but it can feel like one when everyone else’s kid seems to be flying through chapter books. Truth is, children learn to read at different ages, especially in home ed and child-led environments. Many perfectly bright children don’t click with reading until 7, 8 or even later – and go on to become strong, confident readers.

Typical Reading Ages: What’s Actually “Normal”

Age 4–5: Some begin recognising letters or simple words, often due to early exposure or phonics drills.
Age 6–7: Most children begin decoding (sounding out) and reading short sentences.
Age 8+: Some children only now develop fluent reading. This is still within a typical developmental range – especially if they’re bilingual, neurodivergent, or simply not interested yet.

Important: It’s not about the age – it’s about progress, support, and whether there are signs of underlying issues (see below).

When Should I Be Concerned?

Consider getting extra support if your child:

Shows zero interest in letters or books even when read to regularly
Struggles to retain letter sounds after months of gentle practice
Mixes up words when speaking or has delayed speech
Has a family history of dyslexia or visually skips lines/letters
Gets distressed or anxious when faced with reading – even fun books

If you’re worried, it’s OK to trust your gut. Ask your GP, or look into a private educational assessment – you don’t need to wait for school referrals if you’re home educating.

Practical Tips to Help a Late Reader (Without Pressure)

Read to them daily — and keep it fun. Audiobooks count!
Play phonics games like “I Spy with sounds” or phonics bingo
Use picture books with fewer words to reduce overwhelm
Let them choose silly, easy, or even ‘baby’ books – any reading is valid
Try decodable readers like Oxford Owl or Phonics Bug Club
Don’t compare to other children (including siblings)
Celebrate the tiniest wins – even recognising one new word!

Free Download: Reading Milestone Tracker

Track your child’s progress at their own pace with our Reading Milestone Tracker – a gentle, judgement-free way to spot patterns and celebrate growth.

Real Mum Quote

“My daughter didn’t learn to read until 8. Now she devours books. I’m so glad we didn’t push – we just kept reading together and trusted the process.”
– Hannah, home ed mum, Yorkshire

Final Reassurance

If your child isn’t reading yet, you haven’t failed – and neither have they. Keep creating a rich, calm, and book-filled environment. With time, support and trust, it will come. And if it doesn’t? That’s not shameful – it’s a sign to explore what they need.