Early Reading Skills Are Improving: What Families Can Do
New data shows young students are making big gains in reading. Learn how your family can build on this success and foster a lifelong love of books at home.
Discover the 2025 "Read With Jenna Jr." book list! Explore 22 diverse titles for kids of all ages, plus tips for parents and the initiative's lasting impact.
New research from HarperCollins UK reveals a concerning shift: fewer than half of parents with children up to 13 say reading aloud is “fun for me.” Among Gen Z parents—who grew up with screens and digital media—reading is increasingly seen as a subject to learn rather than a fun or enriching activity. This change in attitude risks disrupting one of the most effective ways to foster early literacy and emotional connection.
One of the biggest hurdles for young writers is coming up with ideas. To help them get started, encourage them to draw inspiration from their daily lives. A trip to the park, a funny moment at school, or even a dream they had can serve as the foundation for a story. Favorite books, movies, or TV shows can also spark ideas—ask them to imagine what might happen if the story continued or took a different turn.
Excessive screen time has become a growing concern for parents, educators, and health professionals alike, particularly when it comes to its impact on children’s cognitive development. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to screens can negatively affect a child’s brain, especially during critical developmental years.
Creativity is a cornerstone of childhood development, shaping how children think, solve problems, and interact with the world around them. It’s not just about artistic expression; creativity fosters critical thinking, adaptability, and innovation—skills that are essential for success in academics and life. When children engage in creative activities, they learn to approach challenges with curiosity and develop the confidence to explore new ideas.
Screen time has become an integral part of modern childhood, with devices like smartphones, tablets, and televisions dominating daily routines. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, screen time refers to any time spent using devices with screens, including watching videos, playing games, or browsing social media. While technology offers educational benefits and entertainment, excessive screen time can negatively impact children’s development.
Reading aloud is more than just a bedtime ritual; it’s a powerful tool for cognitive and linguistic development. Research shows that when children listen to stories, their brains are actively engaged in processing language, building neural connections that are critical for literacy. The act of hearing words spoken aloud stimulates areas of the brain responsible for comprehension, memory, and imagination.