“Books are the quietest and steadiest of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.” – Charles W. Eliot
In an increasingly digitalized world, where children have access to rapid and simultaneous information through mobile and electronic devices, it is essential to value the importance of reading in children’s lives.
According to a report by Fundación Familias Power (July 2023), 56% of children in 1st grade do not write or read, and only identify letters. In turn, among those in 2nd grade, 63% do not read or only read syllabically, without identifying concepts, which in 3rd grade is reduced to 37%. In 4th grade, the proportion of those who read and understand is only 13%, and in 5th grade, 72.5% do not understand what they read.
María José Pezo, elementary school teacher specialized in Montessori Education, says that “reading at an early age is very important, since it favors the development of imagination in children and is of great help in cognitive and socioemotional development. When we refer to cognitive development we can talk about different skills that we can work on, among them, reading comprehension, vocabulary expansion, work on executive skills, generating a study habit, among others”.
Reading, in addition to being a vehicle for accessing knowledge, is presented as an investment in their cognitive, emotional and social development, with benefits that last a lifetime.
“Children who are inserted in a reading context from early childhood generate a secure bond with the adult caregiver who is in charge of reading a story of their interest on a constant basis. They also develop empathy, as they are exposed to listening to or reading stories where they develop emotional understanding and the social codes that can be manifested in them,” says Pezo.
Benefits of encouraging reading
- Helps develop vocabulary and communication skills Studies show that children who are exposed to reading from an early age have a larger vocabulary and better verbal comprehension, helping to improve writing and speaking skills.
- Development of critical thinking Through exposure to diverse perspectives and narratives, children learn to question, analyze and evaluate information more effectively.
- Stimulation of the imagination Reading transports children to imaginary worlds full of adventures, characters and places. Encouraging reading allows them to explore their creativity and broaden their mental horizons. These imaginative experiences contribute to the development of empathy and understanding of different points of view.
- Improved concentration Reading requires attention and concentration, which helps children develop concentration skills needed in daily life.
María José Bastías
Contributing Journalist Educa Jugando