The Head's Perspective

Rekindling a Love of Reading at Roots

I recently started a new book, and while reading a few pages last night, I realised that this was the first time in ages I’d actually picked up a book! I always have an excuse – “I’m too tired to read” is usually my go-to. More often, I end up watching funny reels on Instagram instead. It made me think about the poor example I was setting for my children.

At Roots, we recognise that while screen-based learning has its place, especially in subjects like Global Perspectives and CodeAI, reading for pleasure is an area where we’re starting from behind. Many students choose digital devices over books (like most of us), and this shift is having consequences.

Across many countries, “reading for fun” habits are declining. In 2020, just 17% of U.S. 13‑year‑olds read for fun daily, down from 27% in 2012 (theguardian.com). In the UK, enjoyment among 8 to 18-year-olds has also hit a two‑decade low (ft.com). Research suggests this trend is linked to the rise of short-form video platforms and increased screen time, which damages sustained attention and deep comprehension (medium.com). Excessive screen time, particularly for younger children, is associated with weaker language skills and literacy development (childrenandscreens.org).

Why Reading Books Still Matters

1.     Improves comprehension and memory:

Print reading supports stronger retention and deeper understanding than screen reading, which often encourages skimming (thefidgetgame.com).

2.     Builds vocabulary and imagination:

Books expose pupils to broader language and invite imaginative worlds—supporting narrative skills and critical thinking (acc.edu.au).

3.     Supports mental wellbeing and focus:

Reading for pleasure reduces stress, enhances concentration, and trains the brain to think reflectively - benefits that digital entertainment doesn’t offer (en.wikipedia.org).

What We’re Doing at Roots

While we’re not yet at full speed promoting reading-for-pleasure, we are committed to getting the ball rolling:

·        Encouraging students to bring books to school, so there’s always a reading option during breaks or quiet moments.

·        Planning a reading challenge next term, perhaps themed around favourite authors or genres, to build excitement and friendly competition.

·        Incorporating timetabled reading lessons into our 2026 timetable and/or “book clubs” as an extra-curricular activity.

How Parents Can Help

You play a vital role in shaping reading habits at home:

·        Keep physical books visible and accessible - display a rotating selection in the living room or children’s bedroom.

·        Let children choose what they read, whether comics, novels, or non-fiction, prioritising autonomy and pleasure.

·        Read with your child regularly, daily if you can, and encourage discussion: 'What part did you like? Why?' (theguardian.com).

·        Set the example by modelling reading yourself.

A Shared Commitment

After writing this blog post and researching the topic, I believe that reading for pleasure isn't a luxury; it’s foundational to critical thinking, imagination, and lifelong learning. By working together as a collective - staff, families, and students - we can build a culture of reading that balances the digital with the literary.

In a world full of noise, maybe a good book is just what we all need… So, what’s the next book on your reading list?

Looking ahead, we’re turning the page to something truly exciting—Book Day! On Tuesday, 9 September, we will welcome the talented team behind MyStories, a proudly South African initiative creating beautifully illustrated, personalised books in both Afrikaans and English. Each story comes to life through the work of local artists, with stunning designs that make every book feel one-of-a-kind.

This special event is open to the public and promises to be both inspiring and insightful. The MyStories authors will not only share the journey behind their unique books, but also highlight the invaluable benefits of reading aloud—especially for young minds.

Adding to the excitement, we’ll also host a two-day book exhibition with the owners of The Book Owl, overflowing with titles from every genre imaginable. Whether you’re a lifelong bookworm or just beginning your reading journey, there will be something waiting to spark your imagination.

Bibliography

·        Baron, Naomi S. Reading in a Digital Age: Finding Balance. Kappan, 2016. kappanonline.org

·        Kucirkova, Natalia, et al. “How to Get Children Reading Again.” Financial Times, 4 July 2025. ft.com

·        Masood, Adnan. “The Screen Time Paradox: How Social Media Is Both Eroding and Revitalizing Reading.” Medium, May 27, 2025. medium.com

·        “Study: The Number of Teens Reading for Fun Keeps Declining.” Time, 2014. time.com

·        “Children’s Books Are Getting Shorter.” The Sunday Times, May 31, 2025. thetimes.co.uk

·        Interactive environments for training children's curiosity … Abdelghani et al., arXiv, 2024. arxiv.org