The Print Advantage: What Science Says

Studies show that reading print books leads to better reading comprehension and deeper learning compared to digital reading. A 2024 meta-analysis of 49 studies found that students who read on paper consistently scored higher on comprehension tests than those who read the same material on screens. Researchers call this the “screen inferiority effect”—meaning that digital reading leads to lower information retention and understanding.

The Screen Inferiority Effect

The Screen Inferiority Effect refers to the phenomenon where people tend to comprehend and retain less information when reading on screens compared to reading on paper. It has been widely found that screen readers consistently score lower on reading comprehension tests than paper readers.

Why Does This Happen?

The three main reasons why this happens are: 

• Cognitive Overload – Screens encourage multitasking and scrolling, which can disrupt deep comprehension.
• Lack of Mental Mapping – Physical books provide spatial cues (e.g., turning pages and text placement) that help with memory and information recall.
• Tendency to Skim – Readers on screens are more likely to scan text instead of engaging in careful, analytical reading.

Who Is Most Affected?

While this effect impacts all age groups, younger readers are particularly vulnerable. Studies show that children who primarily read on screens develop weaker reading comprehension skills compared to those who engage with print books.

The Impact on Young Readers

The way children read has an even bigger impact. Research shows that children who grow up with access to physical books complete an average of three additional years of education compared to those who do not. In contrast, studies have found no such correlation between e-books and academic success.

Additionally, an MRI study found that children who spend more time reading books have stronger brain connections in areas related to language and cognitive control. Meanwhile, children who spend more time using screens show fewer of these crucial connections.

Screens and Attention—A Hidden Challenge

Screens can also impact students’ attention spans. A study of preschoolers compared two groups:

• Group A) Listened to a story read from a physical book with an adult
• Group B) Watched the same story on a screen with audio narration

Six weeks later, the children who watched the story on screen performed significantly worse on attention tests and exhibited brain wave patterns similar to children with ADHD.

For older students, research using eye-tracking technology revealed that those reading print texts approached the material more carefully, frequently re-reading important details. In contrast, students reading on screens tended to skim, leading to lower reading comprehension scores.

What Can Parents Do?

Given the overwhelming evidence in favour of print reading, how can you, as a parent, help your child build better reading comprehension habits? Here are some tips to use:

• Encourage print reading at home: Having physical books readily available encourages deeper reading and better retention. 
• Balance screen time with paper reading: While screens are unavoidable, setting aside daily time for print reading can reinforce strong literacy skills.
• Use print materials for studying: Students should opt for printed study guides and notes whenever possible when preparing for exams to improve their reading comprehension.
• Model print reading: When children see parents reading physical books, they are more likely to develop the same habit.

The Role of Tutoring in Building Strong Reading Comprehension Skills

We understand the importance of developing strong reading comprehension skills. Our tutors incorporate research-backed cognitive strategies to help students improve their reading abilities, whether it’s through guided reading sessions, print-based study materials, or customized learning plans that reinforce deep reading habits.

While we believe that technology has its place in education, research shows that reading on paper is still the best way to support lasting learning and academic success. By making small shifts toward print reading, students can build stronger literacy skills. They can also improve reading comprehension and set themselves up for long-term success.

Want to help your child develop better reading comprehension skills? Contact us today to learn how our tutoring programs can support their learning journey!

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The Flawed Theory: Three Cueing System

The “three cueing” theory, popularized in the 1960s, suggests that readers use three cues to figure out unfamiliar words:

• Graphic cues – Looking at letters or word shapes to guess the word.
• Syntactic cues – Analyzing sentence structure to predict what the word could be.
• Semantic cues – Using context clues to determine what the word might mean.

While this may seem logical, research in cognitive science, including studies by experts like Stanislas Dehaene and Mark Seidenberg, has shown that this approach does not teach children the critical skills they need to decode words accurately. Instead, the three-cueing system encourages guessing, leading to slow reading development and long-term struggles with literacy.

The Impact: Three Cueing’s Cycle of Struggle

Many children face this challenge without realizing it. A child could be excelling in school but struggled with reading. They memorize words and rely on context clues to get by, but they never truly learn how to decode words. This story is not unique—many children who seem to be progressing in early grades later struggle when reading becomes more complex.

When children are taught to guess words instead of sounding them out using a phonetic approach, they risk falling into a cycle of reading difficulties that can impact their academic success and self-confidence. Research shows that students with weak reading skills are more likely to fall behind in other subjects, disengage from learning, and even experience long-term effects on their career opportunities and personal growth.

What Actually Works: Phonics-Based Instruction

So, what is the solution? 

The answer is phonics-based instruction, which teaches children to break words into individual sounds and letters. This evidence-based approach aligns with how our brains naturally process language, helping children read unfamiliar words with confidence and accuracy.

Phonics instruction doesn’t just teach students how to read—it empowers them to become independent, skilled readers. Unlike guessing strategies, phonics provides the tools to decode any word, ensuring long-term reading success.

Find out why phonics builds better readers here.

How Parents Can Help

If your child is struggling with reading, it’s not too late to get them on the right path. Here’s what you can do:

• Look for phonics-based reading programs – Choose a tutoring program at Oxford Learning, which prioritizes sound-letter relationships over guessing strategies.
• Read with your child daily – encourage them to sound out words rather than guessing.
• Ask your child’s teacher about their approach. If your child’s school still uses three cueing, advocate for phonics instruction.

At Oxford Learning, we specialize in personalized, phonics-based instruction to help children overcome reading challenges. With the right guidance and resources, your child can develop the skills needed to become a confident reader.

A Path to Reading Success

Reading is more than just a skill—it’s the gateway to learning. By moving beyond outdated methods and embracing phonics-based instruction, we can give children the tools they need to unlock a world of knowledge and opportunity.

If you’re concerned about your child’s reading progress, don’t wait. With the right support at Oxford Learning, you can turn frustration into confidence, and every child deserves to experience the joy of reading success.

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The Role of Tech in Supporting Readers

Traditional teaching methods aren’t always enough for many students who struggle with reading fluency, comprehension, or decoding. That’s where tools like Noah Text, Learning Ally, and Voice Dream Reader come into play. These technologies are created to offer features such as text highlighting, auditory support, and scaffolding that can make reading more accessible and engaging for those who need extra support.

• Noah Text is a text-to-speech software designed to assist individuals with reading difficulties, such as those with dyslexia or other learning challenges. It helps users by reading aloud digital text, which can make reading more accessible.
• Learning Ally provides a comprehensive library of audiobooks and other resources to support students with learning disabilities, such as dyslexia. The Learning Ally platform offers access to human-narrated audiobooks, which can be paired with text highlighting and other features to improve accessibility.
• Voice Dream Reader is a mobile app that provides customizable text-to-speech playback, catering to individual preferences and needs. Its design assists individuals with reading difficulties, such as those with dyslexia or anyone who prefers auditory learning.

These tools can help struggling students build their confidence and reading endurance, giving them a way to access and understand texts they might normally find too difficult.

Why the Basics in Reading Still Matter

While technology can be a reliable aid in learning to read, it should not be the primary resource for reading instruction. Phonics-based instruction has repeatedly been proven to be the preferred approach to building strong reading skills. The phonetic approach teaches students how letters and sounds work together so they can figure out words they don’t know and improve their reading. For many students struggling with reading, this step is the key to improving reading skills.

Tutors who understand structured literacy can adapt their teaching style to fit each student. This helps kids learn the basics of reading and become confident readers. They start easy and slowly build to more complex texts, which builds reading confidence and sets kids up for success in the long run!

Combining Tech in Reading with Phonics for Maximum Impact

A personalized tutoring program can combine individualized reading instruction supplemented with the latest supportive technology. Here’s how to create an effective blend:

• Teachers and tutors can use phonics in lessons, and students and parents can use tools like Noah Text or Learning Ally at home for extra support
• Parents can encourage their children to read more by using regular books and tech that helps with understanding, such as apps with decodable text or interactive reading exercises.
• Librarians and tutors can provide resources for different learning needs, ensuring students have access to phonics programs and tech in reading tools.

This balanced approach helps students build core skills while enjoying the helpful benefits of technology.

Why Balance Matters

Whether it’s tutoring or school, we want students to be confident and independent readers. Tech in reading can help close some gaps, but leaning on it too much stops students from getting the skills they need to succeed. For lasting results, we need a balanced approach that stresses phonics and structured literacy while supplementing skills and enjoying the flexibility and engaging features of technology.

Supporting Your Child’s Reading Journey

At Oxford Learning, we know every student can become a great reader. Our reading programs help students build a strong foundation in basic reading skills using a phonetic approach.

Whether your child struggles with dyslexia, fluency, or understanding what they read, our tutors are here to help them build the skills they need to succeed—not just in reading but in life! Focusing on the basics and using personalized solutions creates a space where all readers can thrive.

Start today and see how our personalized approach to reading can help your child.

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Starting the reading journey is an exciting milestone. The first step? Take a trip to the library and let your child choose a few books. This builds a sense of ownership and excitement, sparking an early love for reading. But beyond selecting books, the method you use to teach reading plays an even more critical role. 

The Debate: Phonics vs. Whole Language

Reading instruction falls into two categories: phonics and whole language. Phonics teaches children to break words down into sounds, or “phonemes,” which are then blended to form words. This method mirrors how children naturally learn language: by listening, distinguishing sounds, and eventually combining them to create meaning.

Whole language, on the other hand, treats words as entire units to be memorized rather than broken down. However, this method can be confusing for young children. Imagine trying to memorize thousands of words by sight alone! This approach can feel counterintuitive for children, relying on memorization instead of comprehension.

Why Phonics Works

Phonics aligns with the way kids naturally learn language. By understanding that words are made up of individual sounds, they develop the ability to decode new words. This gives them the tools to tackle unfamiliar words independently, boosting their reading confidence.

Phonics also encourages precision and persistence. Rather than guessing a word’s meaning, phonics encourages children to “sound it out.” This skill translates into better problem-solving and critical thinking abilities in reading and other subjects.

Why Whole Language Falls Short

The whole language approach can limit a child’s reading progress because it relies on memorizing entire words rather than breaking them down into sounds. While this method can help children recognize a few familiar words, it doesn’t equip them to decode new words independently.

Whole language often encourages guessing based on pictures or context, which can lead to frustration as texts become more complex. Without the tools to sound out new words, children may struggle, impacting both their reading skills and their confidence. Over time, this can diminish their interest in reading altogether.

Phonics provides children with a roadmap for understanding words logically. By learning to break words into sounds, young readers gain the skills they need to read independently, building confidence, independence, and a true love for reading.

Building Strong Readers with Phonics

Opt for a phonics-based approach to give your child the best start in reading. Encourage them to focus on the sounds in words and practise “sounding out” letters and combinations. Not only does this lead to stronger reading skills, but it fosters a mindset of persistence and curiosity.

For over 40 years, Oxford Learning’s Little Readers program has helped young readers develop confidence and foundational skills through phonics. With a strong base in phonics, children don’t just become great readers—they become lifelong learners.

So, take a trip to the library, pick up a few books, and start reading. With phonics as your guide, your child is on the path to success.

If you find that your child is struggling with reading, Oxford Learning can help.

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Originally published July 2010. Updated 2024

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Surprisingly, the most critical year is much earlier in a child’s development. According to Time News, the single most important academic year for children is actually third grade. 

The Importance of Third Grade

So, why is third grade so significant? 

It’s the year when students transition from learning to read to reading to learn. This shift may seem subtle, but it has profound implications for a child’s academic progress. In earlier grades, the focus is on mastering the basics of reading—decoding words, understanding sentence structure, and developing early comprehension skills. By third grade, the expectation changes dramatically. Students are now expected to use their reading skills as a tool to access knowledge in every other subject.

Reading comprehension becomes a gateway to learning from science to social studies and even math. Without strong reading skills, students can struggle to grasp new concepts, leading to difficulties in subjects that might not seem directly connected to literacy. For example, a math problem that involves word problems requires strong reading comprehension to decode and solve effectively. As students progress, academic success increasingly hinges on their ability to read and understand complex texts.

Third Grade as a Predictor of Future Success

The research supports the idea that third grade is a key turning point. Studies have shown that students who are not reading proficiently by the end of third grade are more likely to struggle in later academic years. In fact, according to the Time News article, students who fail to meet reading requirements by the end of this year are at a higher risk of falling behind. Reading proficiency at this stage has even been linked to long-term success in both education and the workforce.

This is why many educators, tutors, and even policymakers place such importance on third grade. It’s the year that often determines a child’s future academic path. Schools, tutoring centres, and educators devote additional resources to ensuring students are proficient in reading by the end of this year, knowing that it can make all the difference in the years to come.

How Can Parents Support Their Third Grader?

Given the importance of third grade, parents have an opportunity to play a key role in their child’s success during this critical year. 

Here are some strategies to consider to help support your third grader.

1. Encourage Daily Reading: The more students read, the more comfortable they become with the written word. Set aside time for daily reading, whether it’s independent or shared reading time. Make reading fun by choosing books that align with your child’s interests.
   
2. Ask Questions: After your child reads, ask them about the story. Encourage them to summarize what they’ve read or predict what might happen next. This strengthens comprehension skills and helps them engage more deeply with the text. 
   
3. Get a Tutor: If your child is struggling or if you simply want to ensure they are fully prepared, tutoring can be an invaluable tool. Tutors, like those at Oxford Learning, can provide personalized attention and focus on areas where your child needs extra help, ensuring they don’t fall behind during this critical year. Learn more about tutoring here.
   
4. Create a Reading-Rich Environment: Surround your child with opportunities to read. Keep books, magazines, or even educational apps readily available. By making reading a regular part of your child’s life, you help them develop a love for learning that can last a lifetime.
   
5. Stay in Communication with Teachers and Tutors: Teachers and tutors are key partners in your child’s educational journey. Regularly check in with them to see how your child is progressing. Both teachers and tutors can offer insights into areas of strength and areas where improvement is needed, allowing you to address any issues before they become major roadblocks.

Why Tutoring is Important in Third Grade?

Tutoring is especially important in third grade because it ensures that students are keeping up with the demands of this crucial year. A tutor can work closely with your child to identify any gaps in their reading abilities, providing focused instruction that may not always be possible in a busy classroom setting. With support, students can strengthen their reading comprehension and feel more confident as they tackle increasingly complex materials across all subjects.

For students who are already excelling, tutoring can provide enrichment opportunities. Advanced reading exercises, comprehension challenges, and exposure to more difficult texts can keep them engaged and push their abilities even further.

Want to Learn More?

To read the full Time News article and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of third grade is such a crucial turning point, click here. 

If you’re looking for ways to support your child’s academic success during this important year, check out our Elementary School Tutoring Guide. In it, you’ll find tips, strategies, and resources designed to help students excel in third grade and beyond.

Updated. This post was originally published in 2012.

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Simply put, books compete with screens for attention, both in the classroom and at home.

Even seasoned novel readers report finding it challenging to shut out distractions and sustain focus on a book. The reason has to do with how our brains process reading.

Reading is Hard

According to Maryann Wolf, director of the Center for Dyslexia, Diverse Learners and Social Justice, we are not born with intrinsic brain wiring for reading the way we are with vision or scent. We all build reading skills in our brains step by step. Like any skill, building strong offline reading skills takes both effort and practice.

Basically, reading is hard and slow, and your phone has programmed your brain to want quick and easy.

Wolf says that the ability to deep read—read intentionally and for a long period of time—reflects the brain’s ability to go beyond its natural state. She also says that the more we read online, the more our neural pathways develop screen reading as a preference. So it’s no wonder that students find offline reading more challenging that it used to be.

Online Reading and Your Brain

When we read online, our natural inclination is to skim; our eyes jump around the page, searching for what we are looking for. We search, we browse. We rarely read line by line, taking in the words. The more we read online, the more skimming becomes the natural way to read.

Our brains become wired to prefer skimming. Unfortunately, skimming is a less deep process, leading to less retention and recall. Skimming is a natural part of the digital world we live in. Book reading is the opposite of the world we live in. It is slow, deliberate, and time-consuming.

Students might think they have poor reading skills because they find deep reading challenging. They likely avoid it for this same reason. The reality is that even highly skilled readers can struggle with this process. Just because students find reading for a long period challenging does not mean they are not good at it. (source) 

Even in a digital world, reading deeply is a very valuable skill.

Deep Reading

Deep reading is a thoughtful and deliberate process that can deepen comprehension. It’s a slow process. that involves many complex cognitive skills that work together to build understanding, including deductive reasoning, analysis, reflection, and insight.

Reading deeply is a process of expanding your mind—quite literally. The more students practise this skill, the more neural connections they build to make this process easier.

Tips to Help Students Build Stronger Reading Skills for Deep Reading

Putting away the phone and being intentional about building reading takes commitment and discipline, but it is possible. Here are six ways to rebuild deep reading skills:

1. Be uncomfortable. Understand that being deliberate about avoiding technology to focus on reading might feel uncomfortable. The brain has been trained by smartphones and other influences to want immediacy. You are fighting against a built-up habit.
2. Reduce Distractions. Notice when thoughts drift. When you find your mind has wandered, take note and redirect back to the page.
3. Make notes as you read. Writing while reading engages more areas of the brain and makes reading active, which boosts comprehension.
4. Go at your own pace. There is no rush to read quickly.
5. Set a timer. Read for 20 undistracted minutes and increase time incrementally.
6. Practice often. Read slowly and deliberately.

Help your student build stronger reading skills with help from Oxford Learning. Contact a location near you to learn more.

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Whether you’re a student tackling textbooks or a professional drowning in reports, traditional reading methods may not always do the trick. That’s where bionic reading comes in, changing how readers engage with text.

What Is Bionic Reading?

Bionic Reading, developed by a Swiss developer named Renato Casuut, aims to make reading easier by guiding the eyes through artificial fixation points. But what does that mean exactly?

Imagine you’re looking at the word “Bionic”. Notice how the first three letters are in bold. Now, take a look at “Reading,” with the first four letters in bold. This is how all words are presented in Bionic Reading. It’s different from regular text.

The creators of this tool say the eyes focus on the bolded part of the word, and the brain fills in the rest. Since the brain processes words faster than the eyes can read individual letters, focusing on fewer letters at a time allows the reader to process faster while still grasping the full meaning.

At first glance, it seems like a fancy font. But it’s actually much more than that. Unlike a simple font, Bionic Reading can selectively bold parts of words. Developers can even tweak settings like how many letters are bolded and the contrast between bold and regular text using the Bionic Reading API, making it a customizable option for text in apps.

Bionic Reading

Select the Right Tool

Numerous apps and software platforms offer bionic reading. If you are interested in trying this tool, try experimenting with different options to find the one that best suits your needs.

Here are some tools worth trying:

• Bionic-Reading
• Bionify
• Speed Reader

Supplement with Traditional Reading

While bionic reading may offer benefits, it’s essential to supplement it with traditional reading methods. Incorporate diverse reading strategies to develop a well-rounded approach to information consumption.

Should You Try Bionic Reading?

When thinking about trying this reading technique, consider factors such as reading habits, learning goals, and personal preferences:

Pros: (According to developers)

Faster reading: This reading technique can let readers read faster, covering more material in less time.

Better focus: Developers purport this tool to boost concentration by cutting distractions and focusing on one word at a time. Plus, people with ADHD or dyslexia have found that this technique improves their reading comprehension.

Improved understanding: Bionic reading may improve understanding by reducing mental strain and helping you remember information better.

Note: many claims of bionic reading effectiveness have not been proven scientifically.

Cons: 

Learning curve: Getting used to it might take some time and practice, especially if you’re used to traditional methods.

Limited use: While Bionic Reading works well for certain kinds of content, it might not be great for complex or nuanced texts that need deeper analysis.

Eye strain risk: Reading this way for a long time can strain the eyes. It’s important to take breaks and care for your eyes properly.

Not proven scientifically. Research shows no evidence that using this method leads to faster processing, and claims about its efficacy have been disproven.

In sum, Bionic reading is a modern tool that might help some readers consume information online faster and more effectively, and it could be fun to try. However, it is essentially only a fun tool to read with rather than a way to develop reading skills.

Build Reading Basics with Oxford Learning

While knowing the latest tech trends that make learning easier helps parents, students, and educators stay current with the latest tools, it does not mean that using them gives students an advantage. In fact, research shows that when it comes to developing reading skills, the simplest approach is best.

It’s fun to know about and even experiment with the latest tools, but technology does not always help in the classroom.

Using a phonetic-based language approach, Oxford Learning’s reading expertise, trained tutors, and personalized approach can help students unlock their full reading potential and achieve their academic goals.

Find a Location Near You

NB: Oxford Learning programs do not use Bionic Reading or assistive reading software in their programming. This article does not indicate an endorsement of bionic reading and is provided for informational purposes only.

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However, the signs of dyslexia may vary depending on the individual’s age. Keep reading to learn more about the signs of dyslexia at different stages of development, from preschool to adulthood.

Signs of Dyslexia at Different Ages

In the early years, dyslexia can be challenging to detect as children are still developing their language skills. However, there might be certain indicators that set them apart from their peers:

• Difficulty with Nursery Rhymes: Children with dyslexia might find it challenging to recite nursery rhymes or remember the order of words, often struggling to distinguish between sounds.
• Mispronunciation of Words: Persistent difficulty in pronouncing words correctly, even after repeated corrections, could be an early sign of dyslexia.
• Difficulty Learning the Alphabet: Struggling to learn the alphabet or confusing similar-looking letters, such as ‘b’ and ‘d’, is another possible indication.

Dyslexia Signs in Primary School (Ages 6-12)

As children enter primary school, the demands on their reading and writing skills increase, making dyslexia signs more apparent:

• Slow Reading: Dyslexic children often read much slower than their peers, and their reading may lack fluency.
• Frequent Spelling Errors: Difficulty in spelling common words and inconsistent spellings of the same word in different contexts can be red flags.
• Struggling with Sequences: Dyslexic children might have trouble recalling the correct sequence of days, months, or numbers.
• Avoidance of Reading Aloud: Due to the fear of embarrassment, children with dyslexia might avoid reading aloud in front of their classmates.

Looking to build reading comprehension? Check out these tips and tricks.

Dyslexia Signs in Teenage Years (Ages 13-18)

During adolescence, the impact of dyslexia on academic performance can become more pronounced, affecting various subjects:

• Difficulty with Comprehension: Understanding complex texts or following lengthy instructions can be challenging for dyslexic teenagers.
• Poor Organizational Skills: Dyslexia can lead to difficulties in organizing thoughts and managing time, affecting homework completion and study habits.
• Low Self-Esteem: Struggling with academics may result in lowered self-esteem and increased feelings of frustration and inadequacy.

Dyslexia Signs in Adulthood (Ages 18+)

While dyslexia may continue into adulthood, individuals often develop coping strategies that mask the condition:

• Career Challenges: Dyslexia can affect job performance, particularly in tasks involving written communication or reading-heavy responsibilities.
• Difficulty with Forms and Paperwork: Filling out forms or handling paperwork may still be problematic due to reading and writing challenges.

Memorization Struggles: Individuals with dyslexia might find it challenging to memorize information, impacting various aspects of daily life.

Identifying Signs and Symptoms of Dyslexia

Identifying signs of dyslexia at different ages is crucial for providing timely support and interventions. If you notice any of the mentioned signs in yourself or someone you know, seeking a comprehensive assessment by a qualified professional is essential. Early diagnosis and tailored educational approaches can help dyslexic individuals unlock their true potential and thrive in both academic and personal pursuits.

Remember, dyslexia does not define a person’s intelligence; it’s just a unique way of processing information that can be overcome with the right support.

To learn more about dyslexia, visit Dyslexia Canada.

Need Help with Dyslexia? 

Oxford Learning can help you or your child with dyslexia. Everyone learns in their own unique way. As a result, education should be tailored to different skills and learning styles. Oxford Learning tutors build students’ confidence and grasp of topic content.

Contact a location near you to learn more.

The post Dyslexia at Different Ages: Signs and Symptoms appeared first on Oxford Learning.

It’s no surprise that children spend less time reading for pleasure today. Instant entertainment and stimulation take precedence over slower, contemplative reading.

According to Common Sense Media. . .

• HALF of all children under eight own a tablet device and spend an average of about 2.25 hours a day on digital screens
• 8- to 12-year-olds spend an average of almost five hours a day looking at screens on smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and TVs
• Teens aged 3 to 17 spend about 7 hours and 22 minutes per day on screen time.

While reading scores are on the rise, pleasure reading has been declining steadily. Leisure reading also declines more as students age. source

Why Reading for Pleasure Matters

• Positive Benefits on Mental Health. How often students read can relate to their mental health. For instance, a Scholastic Reading Frequency report shows teens who were infrequent readers were more likely to say they felt:

• nervous or anxious (50% of infrequent readers vs. 39% of frequent readers)
• sad or depressed (37% of infrequent readers vs. 25% of frequent readers)
• lonely (30% of infrequent readers vs. 19% of frequent readers).
  
• Reading Builds Social Skills and Empathy. Reading allows students to experience the world from other perspectives and gain insights into other cultures and experiences. Furthermore, reading can help students build greater emotional intelligence.
  
• Boost Academics. Reading for pleasure is linked to increased cognitive development, including clearer thinking, better problem-solving, and improved decision-making. It also builds vocabulary and strengthens writing skills.

Learn how to build stronger reading habits here. 

The Importance of Summer Reading

Summer vacation offers a valuable break from the structured routines of the school year. It’s a time when children can explore their interests, expand their horizons, and discover new worlds through reading. 

Engaging in summer reading helps combat learning loss during the break and fosters creativity, imagination, and critical thinking skills. Plus, it allows kids to develop a lifelong love for reading that can benefit them in various aspects of life.

6 Ways to Make Summer Reading for Pleasure Fun

To reverse the decline in pleasure reading, it’s essential to make summer reading a fun and enticing activity for kids. 

Here are some ideas to help you get started:

1. Create a Reading for Pleasure Challenge

Set a goal for how many books your child should read over the summer, and create a reward system for achieving it. Make it a friendly competition or involve their friends to add an element of excitement.

2. Visit the Library

Take your child to the local library and let them explore the vast collection of books. Encourage them to choose books that align with their interests, whether it’s adventure, fantasy, science fiction, or any other genre.

3. Read for Pleasure Together 

Make reading a shared experience by establishing a family reading time. Set aside a specific time each day when everyone in the family reads their book silently. This not only encourages reading but also creates a cozy and bonding atmosphere.

4. Organize a Book Club

Gather a group of your child’s friends and start a summer book club. Assign a book for everyone to read and schedule regular meetups to discuss the story, characters, and themes. This will enhance their reading comprehension and encourage social interaction.

5. Introduce Digital Reading 

While digital devices can be a source of distraction, they can also provide access to a vast array of ebooks and audiobooks. Use technology to your advantage by allowing your child to choose from digital reading options.

6. Lead by Example 

Children often emulate the behaviours they see in adults. Demonstrate your love for reading by setting aside time for your reading sessions. Seeing you immersed in a book will inspire and motivate them to do the same.

One of the most important factors in building a reading-positive culture for kids is having a role model who reads for pleasure. For instance, 57% of children who read often have parents who encourage daily reading; however, only 16% of children who are infrequent readers have parents who encourage reading. Source.

Interested in more tips and tricks to engage your child with summer reading? Check out these summer reading tips.

Get Reading for Pleasure This Summer

Summer is the perfect time to reverse the decline in kids’ pleasure reading. By creating a nurturing environment, setting goals, and making reading an enjoyable experience, we can reignite their love for books. 

Encouraging children to read for pleasure benefits their academic growth, nurtures their imagination, and broadens their horizons. So let’s embrace the summer as an opportunity to bring back the joy of reading into our children’s lives.

Remember, there is always time to start a summer reading tradition!

Get Summer Reading Help At Any Age

Reading is the foundation of all learning. So, it makes sense that when kids struggle to read, reading is anything but pleasurable. Help your child build stronger reading skills with a reading program at Oxford Learning. Our reading programs help students of all ages build a strong foundation of reading skills to launch them into a world of reading for life.

Contact a location near you to learn more.

The post Reading for Pleasure is on the Decline —Summer Is the Time to Fix It appeared first on Oxford Learning.

In a world captivated by video storytelling, placing value on books is a healthy habit for students and adults alike!

BBC Culture set out to determine the greatest children’s books ever written. The poll involved 177 book experts from 56 countries, creating a captivating list celebrating children’s literature’s power and enduring impact.

The Underappreciation of Children’s Literature

Children’s literature often is underappreciated. Many parents may acknowledge its importance in fostering imagination and instilling a love for reading at a young age. Yet, children’s books are unfortunately considered second class compared to other literature.

Children’s literature possesses a unique power to captivate and educate young minds, shaping their values, broadening their horizons, and fostering empathy.

Children who develop a love of reading at a young age are more likely to become strong readers for life. Not only do good reading skills benefit students academically, they are also a skill required for lifelong success. Reading:

• Develops vocabulary,
• Increases attention span,
• Promotes stronger analytical thinking

Unfortunately, by underestimating children’s literature, we fail to recognize its impact on shaping the future generation, empowering young readers to become curious, empathetic, and critical thinkers. But by embracing and celebrating children’s literature, we can lead to a richer literary landscape acknowledging these books’ profound influence on shaping young minds.

Children’s Literature in Today’s World

The poll coincides with recent discussions about children’s literature and what books should and shouldn’t be available to children.

However, the controversies surrounding the rewriting of Roald Dahl’s novels for modern sensibilities and the growing movement to ban children’s books addressing BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ themes highlight the importance of recognizing and celebrating these works.

The poll aims to give children’s literature its due and explore the enduring qualities that make great children’s writing.

The full list is a tribute to the boundless imagination, thrilling storytelling, and profound themes in children’s literature— a celebration of literature, creativity, and the books that have genuinely changed us all.

A Selection Of The 100 Greatest Children’s Books of All Time List

# 20 Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown and Clement Hurd, 1947

#48 The Neverending Story by Michael Ende, 1979

# 96 The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams, 1921

#75 A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll, 2020

#10 Matilda by Roald Dahl and Quentin Blake, 1988

#45 The Lord Of the Rings by JRR Tolkien, 1954

#34 A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle, 1962

Click here to see the #1 book on the list and to view the full 100 Children’s books.

Does Your Child Need Reading Support? Consider a Tutoring Program

Although we are celebrating the wonders of children’s literature with the greatest children’s books—it’s important to know that some children may find reading challenging. 

If your child needs assistance with reading, consider a tutoring program that could provide the support they need to develop their skills and unlock the magic of books.
Contact a location near you to learn more.

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