Reading for Pleasure: Inspiring Children to Read

Reading is not just something that children should do in school, it needs to be an everyday part of our lives and something we choose to do at all ages! Here’s why reading for pleasure is so important…Dr Seuss once said, “You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.” Often children will read a book set at Primary school but are reluctant to pick up a book to read at home for pleasure.

There are plenty of benefits for those who enjoy curling up with a book. Research shows convincing evidence that reading for pleasure can increase empathy, improve relationships with others, reduce the symptoms of depression and improve wellbeing throughout life. Research has also shown that students who choose what and where they read tend to be more motivated, read more and show greater language and literacy development.

Reading for pleasure has also been positively linked with an increase in the following literacy-related benefits for children:

• Reading attainment, phonics and writing ability
• Text comprehension and grammar
• Improved spelling
• Breadth of vocabulary
• Positive reading attitudes
• Greater self-confidence as a reader
• Pleasure reading in later life
• Greater all-round academic success

The main thing to remember when helping your child find a book to read at home is to focus on their interests and passions. When children choose their own reading material, they tend to be more motivated, so it helps if they lead the process!

Enjoy reading at home these holidays.

Mrs Sue Zweck, Head of Teaching and Learning K-5