This weekend I spent some wonderful time with my grandchildren. As grandparents often do, I found myself talking to them about the importance of reading books. It was a simple conversation, but it also made me reflect on a larger concern we share today.
In earlier times, children naturally gravitated toward books. Stories lived in the pages of books, and imagination filled in the visuals. Today, however, children are surrounded by electronic gadgets. Phones, tablets, and computers do not just tell stories — they present them with vibrant visuals, sound effects, and endless stimulation. It is therefore not surprising that many children prefer screens to books.
Yet this raises an important question. If children spend most of their time on electronic gadgets and very little time reading, how will they develop strong language skills? Reading is not merely about absorbing information. It builds vocabulary, imagination, expression, and the ability to think deeply. These are skills that cannot be entirely replaced by screen time.
This concern is not mine alone. Many grandparents, parents, and even school teachers share the same anxiety. How do we make reading attractive again for children growing up in a digital world?
Making Reading Engaging for Children
Instead of fighting against technology or forcing children to read, the answer lies in making reading more engaging and interactive.
Children may sometimes find reading boring, but they rarely find games boring. They love activities that involve movement, creativity, and performance. They enjoy being on stage, expressing themselves, and participating in lively, fun activities.
With this idea in mind, we decided to try something different in our school. Could reading be linked to performance on stage? What if language learning could be connected to games and activities?
Children could read stories and then enact them. They could read poems and perform them dramatically. They could participate in storytelling sessions, debates, language games, and creative dramatics. Instead of reading being a solitary and quiet task, it could become a lively activity that builds confidence and communication skills.
Three Years of Encouraging Results
We began implementing these ideas from Class 1 onward. It has now been three years since we started this approach.
The results have been extremely encouraging.
Children who were initially hesitant to read are now far more expressive. Their vocabulary has improved. More importantly, they have begun to enjoy reading. When children discover that books can open doors to creativity, performance, and imagination, they begin to see reading not as a chore but as a pleasure.
One of the most satisfying outcomes has been the change we see in our school library. Earlier, libraries were often quiet spaces visited by only a few students. Today, more children are walking into the library, browsing through shelves, and asking for books. For educators, this is a deeply rewarding sight.
The Role of Parents
While schools can certainly encourage reading, parents’ role is equally crucial.
Parents should make books a natural part of a child’s life. One simple yet powerful idea is that whenever a child receives a gift, a book should be included. Toys and gadgets bring temporary excitement, but books bring lasting value.
Creating a reading-friendly environment at home can also make a big difference. When children see parents reading, they are more likely to imitate the habit.
Encouraging Awareness Through Newspapers
For older children, another valuable habit is reading the newspaper daily. This helps them stay aware of what is happening around them.
Parents can take this opportunity to ask their children simple questions about current events. What is happening in different countries? Why are certain events important? How do these events affect people’s lives?
Today, the world is witnessing several conflicts and humanitarian challenges. When children read about such issues, they begin to develop empathy. They learn to understand the struggles of people who may have lost loved ones or homes.
At the same time, they also begin to appreciate how fortunate they are to live in a country like India, where they can grow, study, and dream about their future.
Language Beyond English
Another important aspect of reading is the diversity of languages. While English plays a significant role in education today, children should also be encouraged to appreciate their mother tongue and other Indian languages.
India has a rich linguistic heritage. Reading stories, poems, and literature in different languages helps children connect with culture, traditions, and different ways of thinking. It also strengthens their cognitive abilities and broadens their worldview.
Learning foreign languages can also become an exciting journey when it begins with stories, songs, and simple books.
A Collective Responsibility
Cultivating the habit of reading is not the responsibility of schools alone. It requires a collective effort from parents, grandparents, and teachers.
If we want the next generation to think clearly, communicate effectively, and empathize with others, we must help them discover the joy of reading.
In a world filled with screens and distractions, books remain one of the most powerful tools for shaping young minds.
And perhaps the best way to begin is simple — place a book in a child’s hand, read a story together, and allow their imagination to take flight.