This paper explored the reading perceptions, needs, and practices of parents from an urban poor community in Manila, Philippines. 274 parents of K-1 pupils were surveyed to determine their reading perceptions, needs, and practices. The results revealed that the respondents believed that reading is important for their children's social development, and that they are aware that reading starts at home. However, their needs and practices contradicted their perceptions because reading seemed to be not their priority probably due to the limited access and budget for reading materials. This poses a challenge to the educative sector of the community including the teachers who are considered to be backbones of literacy.