The attitude towards reading has changed. For many childrem reading is no longer the first activity they turn to for entertainment. Personally, it used to be a form of escapism into a magical land of dragons, fairies or some other mystical creature. It was also a way to learn more about new topics and even myself. With Tiktok, Youtube, Netflix and many other forms of constant stimulation, books can feel slower or less entertaining/exciting.
At school, reading can also become connected to tests, comprehension questions and dreaded homework. Thus, some students begin to see reading as work or a chore, rather than something to enjoy. While these skills are important, they can make reading feel like something children have to do, rather than something they want to do. When reading becomes only about marks on answering questions, students can lose sight of the enjoyment that stories can bring.
This is why it is so important to rebuild a positive attitude towards reading, starting from primary school. Children need to view books as more than just something that exists in the confines of school. Reading can be funny, adventurous, emotional, silly, mysterious, and exciting. Whether it is a novel, comic, picture book, audio book or any non fiction book about something they are interested in, the goal should be to help children find reading that is enjoyable to them.
Letting children choose their own books, reading together, visiting the library, or setting aside ten minutes a day to discuss a book with their parents, can make a massive difference. The aim is not to make reading feel like another lesson, but instead a fun hobby/part of life.
When children enjoy reading, they build vocabulary, writing skills, focus, imagination and confidence, all while not realising. More importantly, they begin to see reading as something valuable beyond the classroom and a tool to bring with them into adulthood.
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”
– Dr Seuss
Natasya Ross