Bedtime stories 'trouble' parents

Many skip passages they cannot read or make up words to get to the end of the sentence, the poll for adult learning organisation Learndirect found.

A third of parents also admit to difficulties helping their children with maths homework.

Learndirect is launching a new children's book - backed by celebrity parents Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford - to encourage more parents to test themselves as they read to their children.

Mr Holmes said: "Reading together as a family is very important to us. It's an opportunity for quality time and we can do it anywhere."

He said some of the maths puzzles in the book "really made me question my own maths skills".

"It's a good way to test yourself but it doesn't take away from the enjoyment of reading with your kids."

The poll of 1,000 parents of children aged between five and 10 found a third of parents have problems helping their children with their maths - particularly fractions and percentages. It also revealed that 20% of parents have difficulties with English homework.

Child psychologist Dr Pat Spungin said parents could help their children boost their English skills by reading them stories.

"When parents read to children they are physically close, giving all their attention to their children and sharing the experience of reading something they both enjoy," he said.