# National Magazine Day: 5 reasons children read magazines

> Experts say magazines boost reading for reluctant kids.
- Title: National Magazine Day: 5 reasons children read magazines
- Summary: Experts say magazines boost reading for reluctant kids. Magazines help children who dislike books by offering interest-based content, short articles, and…
- Keywords: national magazine day, children reading, reluctant readers, magazines, open university, national literacy trust, reading habits, school, National, Magazine, Day, reasons
- Source: MadeForMums — https://madeformums.com/school-and-family/family-life/national-magazine-day-benefits-of-magazines-for-children
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: national magazine day, children reading, reluctant readers, magazines, open university, national literacy trust, reading habits, school
## National Magazine Day 2026
National Magazine Day 2026 celebrates reading with over 60,000 magazines distributed across UK schools.
## Only 36.1% enjoy reading
Just 36.1% of children aged 8 to 18 enjoy reading in their free time, according to National Literacy Trust research.
## Magazines turn reluctant readers
Magazines help reluctant readers with bite-sized articles, colorful pictures, and no pressure to finish a whole book.
## Open University study
A 2025 Open University study found children given What on Earth! magazines alongside reading sessions reported greater enjoyment.
## Kelly Ashley's recommendation
Kelly Ashley, Lecturer in Reading for Pleasure at Open University, recommends non-fiction magazines to broaden reading into diverse forms.
## Children explore interests
48.7% of children said reading helps them explore their favorite interests, according to National Literacy Trust research.
## Shared reading experience
Reading magazines sparks conversations, helping less confident readers join in during shared sessions.
## New words and facts
85.2% of children who read weekly felt magazines helped them learn new words and fascinating facts.
## Relaxation from screens
64.4% of children who read weekly said magazines helped them relax, especially when stressed or anxious.
## Key takeaway

Magazines help children who dislike books by offering interest-based content, short articles, and shared reading experiences.