Children ‘more likely to own a mobile phone than a book’

Islamabad—Children as young as seven are more likely to own a mobile phone than a book, figures show, fuelling fears over a decline in reading. Almost nine-in-10 pupils now have a mobile compared with fewer than three- quarters who have their own books in the home, it was disclosed. The study by the National Literacy Trust suggested a link between regular access to books outside school and high test scores, The Telegraph Reported. According to figures, some 80 per cent of children with better than expected reading skills had their own books, compared with just 58 per cent who were below the level expected for their age group.

The disclosure follows the publication of a study found that keeping just 20 books in the home could boost children’s chances of doing well at school. Research led by Nevada University, in the United States, said that children coming from a “bookish home” remained in education for around three years longer than young people born into families with empty bookshelves, irrespective of parents’ own education, occupation and social class.

Research illustrates the clear link with literacy resources at home and a child’s reading ability, as well the vital importance of family encouragement. By ensuring children have access to reading materials in the home and by encouraging children to love reading, families can help them to do well at school and to enjoy opportunities.