The National Literacy Survey (NLS), UK, released in February 2020, has found that only 25% of children surveyed read every day; this is the lowest level – ever – recorded by the NLS since they started the survey in 2005. It’s never too late to develop the reading habit in children but we should recognize that parents and schools need to play a more active role in helping children discover the joy of reading.
Mayoor School(MS), Sector 126, Noida, is dedicated to nurturing a lifelong love for reading among its students. The school fosters an environment that encourages exploration and curiosity, ensuring that reading is not just an academic requirement but a joyful pursuit.
In this article, we will explore the importance of reading and how Mayoor School (MS), recognized as one of the best schools in Noida, is committed to enhancing the love for reading through innovative practices.
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Why do Kids find Reading so Challenging?
If reading is so obviously important and has many benefits for children, why then are children reading less? Here are the reasons children are reading less:
- Increased Pressure: Children face increased pressure inside and outside of school, leaving less time for recreational reading.
- Socializing: Children have a desire to spend more time socializing, often choosing social activities over reading.
- Technology: Modern technology, including increased screen time, reduces the time children have for reading. Teenagers spend an average of 8 hours 39 minutes per day on screens.
- Adult Influence: Adults have lowered expectations for how much teenagers should read. Some educators avoid teaching whole books because they believe kids won't read them.
- Decline in Enjoyment: Just 34.6% of children and young people aged 8 to 18 said that they enjoyed reading in their free time in 2024, a decrease of 8.8% over the past year.
- Digital Media: Children are reading more on computers and electronic devices than printed books. Those who read only on-screen are less likely to enjoy reading.
- Socio-Economic Factors: Children from disadvantaged backgrounds have less access to reading materials.
- Educational System Challenges: Overcrowded classrooms and lack of individual attention can hinder reading skill development.
- Lack of Motivation: Children may not find reading enjoyable or rewarding, reducing their motivation to improve their skills.
- Poor Instruction: Inadequate teaching methods can impede the learning process.
- Easy Dopamine: Children often choose electronics and social media over reading because they provide easy pleasure. Games and social media are designed to be engaging without requiring too much effort.
How to Change this?
It’s never too late to build the reading habit in kids but it’s definitely easier if we start early.
- Start Early: While it's beneficial to cultivate reading habits at any age, it’s most effective to begin when children are young. Establishing these habits early makes the process easier and more natural.
- Read Aloud: Continue reading aloud to children, even as they get older. This practice is highly effective in building a strong reading habit. Hearing stories read aloud can spark interest and improve comprehension.
- Avoid Lecturing: Refrain from simply telling children to read because it's "good for them." This approach can be counterproductive and make reading seem like a chore. Instead, focus on making reading enjoyable.
- Don't Use Reading as a Barter: Avoid using reading as a condition for other activities, like watching TV. This can create a negative association with reading, positioning it as an obligation rather than a pleasurable activity.
- Engage in Discussion: Discuss books with your child to deepen their understanding and enjoyment. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings about what they've read by asking open-ended questions such as:
- What aspects of the book did you like or dislike?
- How would the story change if the antagonist were a good character?
- On a scale of 10, how would you rate this book?
- Provide Quality Books: Ensure that children have access to a variety of engaging and well-written books. The availability of interesting material is crucial in fostering a love for reading.
- Recognize Environmental Influence: Be aware that children are heavily influenced by their surroundings. Encourage positive influences that promote reading.
- Foster Peer Engagement: Encourage your child to connect with friends who also enjoy reading. These interactions can foster a sense of community and make reading a more social and appealing activity.
- Utilize Virtual Communities: Consider virtual book clubs and online groups as a way to create a culture that revolves around literature. These platforms can provide a space for discussion and shared enthusiasm for reading, regardless of physical location.
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Mayoor School: A Rising Beacon of Holistic Education
Located in Sector 126, Noida, Mayoor School (MS) is renowned for its dedication to academic performance and holistic development. With 20 years of trust, the school has become known for its creative teaching strategies and commitment to extracurricular activities.
With a favourable student-teacher ratio of 20:1, Mayoor School ensures that each student receives personalized attention, which is vital for fostering individual growth and confidence. The school caters to over 2,000 students from Nursery to Class XII, providing a nurturing environment that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration among its diverse student body.
One of the best CBSE schools in Noida, KR Mangalam World School is equipped to nurture a lifelong love for reading through its well-stocked library, engaging book clubs, and interactive literary programs. Storytelling, discussions, and creative writing enhance comprehension and critical thinking, while events like author visits and book fairs inspire curiosity and a deeper appreciation for literature. These resources enhance the overall learning experience and promote active student engagement.
The school has consistently achieved impressive results in CBSE board examinations, with a pass rate of over 95%, reflecting its dedication to academic rigour. Combining academic excellence with a holistic approach to education, the school also provides career counselling services to guide students in their academic and professional journeys, ensuring they are well-prepared for future challenges.
For more information on this and other similar schools, check out this list of the best schools in Noida.
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