Heads Up, Parents! New Research Highlights the Benefits of Teen Reading

A recent study from Australian researchers Dr Jacqueline Manuel and Dr Don Carter, involving over 2,000 young people aged 12–16, explores what teens are reading and why it matters. The research dives into the reading habits of teenagers, and the results are pretty clear: reading for pleasure is vital. Our new library, with its focus on reading in the middle years, is an excellent resource for supporting teen reading for pleasure. Be on the lookout for popular fiction book recommendations coming soon!

Key Takeaways:

• Reading Helps in School: The study confirms that "Young people who read for pleasure are likely to do significantly better at school than their peers." In fact, students who read for pleasure test 18 months above their age in reading proficiency. This means better reading and writing skills, more confidence, a wider knowledge base, and a better understanding of different cultures.
• It's More Than Just Homework: The research shows that reading for fun is just as important as reading for school. It helps teens use their imaginations and understand themselves and the world better.
• Why Aren't They Reading More? The study identifies some challenges that keep teens from reading, including busy schedules, time spent on screens, and not seeing others read for pleasure.

What Can Parents Do?

• Create a Reading-Friendly Home: Make sure books are easy to find and create a comfortable space for reading. Encourage children to remove phones from the bedroom and read for 10 minutes before sleep.
• Support Their Interests: Let your teen choose books that they find interesting and recommend books that you enjoy. Students are twice as likely to pick up a book recommended by friends and family compared to a teacher recommendation.
• Manage Screen Time: Encourage a healthy balance between digital entertainment and reading, and model this yourself. Make sure your children see you reading for pleasure.
• Talk to Teachers: Work with teachers to encourage reading as a valuable and fun activity.

By encouraging a love of reading, together we can help teenagers do well in school, expand their horizons, and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Emma Post
English Faculty Coordinator