Not all children are addicted to phones, nine in ten love reading books

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Not all children are addicted to phones, nine in ten love reading books
BCCL

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  • A recent survey report by the Scholastic India reveals that nine in 10 children in India read books at least once a week, for fun.
  • While a third of them say that they are avid readers, there also exists a section that reads books ‘just out of parents’ pressure.’
  • Those above 15 years of age want to explore books that make them escape reality with its ‘brave’ fictional characters.
Not all children are addicted to mobile phones and screen-based entertainment. A recent survey by the Scholastic India reveals that nine in 10 children in India read books at least once a week. And that too, for fun!

Children also believe that reading is extremely important. They love reading for leisure and also like story books, which are not a part of school curriculum. It means parents can look forward to enhanced vocabulary and critical thinking skills.

While a third of children surveyed claim to be avid readers, there also exists a section that reads books ‘just out of parents’ pressure.’

The divide

Needless to say, younger kids read for leisure and have an inclination towards comics and fairytales. But, as they grow old, learning becomes the motto.
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“As they grow, they grasp more complex concepts. They start reading small anthologies, short stories, general awareness books, a news piece, an article on a contemporary issue or anything that keeps them engaged and entertained,” says the survey.

Kids in the age group of six to eight years like to read books for laughs. As they grow up, they prefer to read true stories. Those in the age group of 12-14 years prefer tilt towards the horror genre.

Those above 15 years of age want to explore books that make them escape reality with its ‘brave’ fictional characters.

The survey also found that girls are more likely to ‘love’ reading, compared to computer or athletic skills.

Computer skills are equally essential
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Older kids, especially teenagers are more likely to engage in videos and outdoor games believing that strong computer skills and acute thinking skills are equally essential.

Scholastic India, which surveyed over 1,500 children and parents has been a publisher of children’s books in India for over two decades now. Its publishings include books by Gulzar and Ruskin Bond.
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