Children reading books: Why reading still matters

Reading books connects children to new ideas and voices, shaping how they perceive the world. It builds empathy, curiosity and confidence. But an important question remains: are children reading books as much as they used to in this new digital age?

The recently released What Kids Are Reading report offers valuable insights into children’s reading habits across Australia. Drawing on data from nearly 60,000 students across 356 schools, the report reveals both encouraging trends and growing challenges in modern child literacy.

Children’s reading habits in primary school: What the research shows

The good news is that children’s reading habits remain strong in primary school. On average, students read around 17 books per year, suggesting that many children are still engaging with books on a regular basis.

However, the report also highlights a significant drop-off in reading engagement as students transition from primary to secondary school.

The shift from children learning to read to reading to learn

Years 3 to 5 mark a turning point in child literacy. This is when children move from learning to read to reading to learn. During this phase, maintaining a consistent reading routine becomes essential.

Research shows that when children read for 15 minutes a day or more, their comprehension improves significantly. Dedicated reading time — separate from screens and homework — helps strengthen focus, vocabulary, and understanding.

The benefits of reading daily for children’s comprehension

One of the clearest benefits of reading is improved comprehension. Yet the report emphasises that reading comprehension is declining overall, even when children are still reading regularly.

Books that provide glossaries of new words, explanations, supportive structure and engaging content can help reverse this trend. Series-based reading encourages sustained daily reading and deeper understanding. For this age, I recommend the Wildlife Wong series.

Bringing books into classrooms through teacher resources also supports comprehension by reinforcing learning and discussion. Wildlife Wong and the Sun Bear has a substantial STEM teacher resource.

Why is reading important during upper primary and early secondary years?

Years 6 to 8 are a particularly vulnerable time for children’s reading development. Academic demands increase just as reading motivation often declines.

To maintain reading engagement during this stage, it is essential to:

• Match books to a child’s reading level
• Choose subjects that genuinely interest the reader
• Build confidence through achievable and enjoyable reading experiences

For this age, I recommend Curious Kai Asks Why, which prompts questions, while engaging children in an adventure science narrative. Supporting reading during this period helps strengthen academic confidence and long-term learning success. Curious Kai Asks Why also comes with an extensive teacher resource.

How to develop reading habits for children that last

The report makes it clear that developing reading habits is a shared responsibility between schools, families and communities. Key recommendations include:

• Start reading habits early
• Leverage the power of book series'
• Give children choice, while guiding them toward suitable books that match their interests
• Turn reading into a shared experience through book discussions, class activities, and reading groups

Reading at home: building strong bedtime reading habits

Family involvement often plays a vital role in sustaining children’s reading habits. Simple routines such as bedtime reading habits help children associate reading with comfort, connection, and enjoyment.

As children progress to reading alone, talking about what they are reading, reading alongside them, or sharing library visits helps keep reading relevant and social.

Library activities and the role of libraries in child literacy

Libraries — and librarians — are central to reading engagement. Library activities such as book clubs, reading challenges and guided recommendations help children discover books that match their interests and reading level.

Making friends with the librarian or independent bookshop owner so they can suggest books is also recommended. Unfortunately, many schools are reducing or closing libraries, often replacing qualified teacher librarians. This is concerning, as teacher librarians play a critical role in curating learning resources and supporting child literacy.

If your school is losing its library or librarian, it may be time to speak up.

Should children be paid to read? Rewards vs real reading motivation

There is an ongoing debate about whether children should be rewarded for reading. Some educators believe incentives can jump-start engagement, while others argue that intrinsic motivation leads to stronger, lasting reading habits.

While rewards may have a place, long-term success comes from helping children find books they genuinely enjoy and supporting them with time, access, and encouragement.

Final thoughts: Supporting children reading for life

Reading is not just an academic skill; it is a lifelong skill that shapes how children understand the world as they grow into adulthood.

The challenge now is not simply getting children to read but helping them love reading enough to keep going.

I’m happy to help…

If your child or student reads one of my books, suggest they email me a review [email protected], I promise to write a personalised email back. Encouragement from an author can go a long way…

What are you thoughts about children's reading habits and literacy skills? Comment below!