– Kranti Gada, Founder, neOwn

Children today are surrounded by screens offering instant gratification through short videos, online games, and endless social media feeds. While technology brings clear advantages, many parents are witnessing unintended consequences: shrinking attention spans, reduced imagination, and growing concerns about cognitive health. Reading, once a natural part of childhood, is increasingly sidelined. The simple joy of holding a book, turning its pages, and discovering new worlds is becoming rare.

Reading is far more than decoding words. It strengthens focus, nurtures empathy, and develops critical thinking—skills vital for academic success and personal growth. It builds confidence, enriches expression, and fuels creativity by inviting children into imagined worlds that spark problem-solving and original thought. Research consistently shows that children who read regularly not only perform better at school but also show greater emotional resilience and clarity in communication. These benefits multiply over time, especially when cultivated from early years.

Yet a 2024 report by the National Literacy Trust revealed that only 34.6 percent of 8–18-year-olds read for pleasure in their free time. The figure has prompted concern among educators and policymakers, but parents and teachers also have a crucial role in rekindling children’s love for reading, particularly fiction.

At home, parents can nurture a reading culture by storytelling, setting aside dedicated reading time, and helping children discover genres and characters that capture their imagination. Once curiosity takes over, children seldom need reminders. Celebrating small milestones—whether finishing a chapter or an entire book—also reinforces the habit and keeps them engaged.

However, in many households today, books are becoming occasional visitors rather than constant companions. Convenience, cost, and space constraints often deter families, especially when screens are always at hand. This is where intentional choices make a difference: keeping books visible, accessible, and woven into daily routines can make reading second nature.

Innovative solutions are also emerging. One example is neOwn, an app-based book rental service that makes books more accessible, affordable, and sustainable. By guiding children to explore stories and characters, such initiatives offer parents a practical way to nurture creativity and curiosity while ensuring that every child embarks on a fruitful reading journey—one that supports development, growth, and a lifelong love of stories.

Also Read: The 9-Minute Principle in Parenting