READING is one of the most fundamental skills that children need to learn in order to succeed academically and in life. In today’s digital age, when electronic devices dominate the landscape, the printed book continues to hold a significant place in the lives of children. With the advent of e-readers and tablets, people can carry their entire library with them wherever they go. Undoubtedly, digital books offer convenience and accessibility. However, the value and unique benefits afforded by physical books are particularly essential for children under 10 years. Let’s explore some of the advantages:

Promote sensory engagement

Physical books provide a tangible experience for children. The act of holding a book, flipping through the pages, feeling the textures of the pages, and even smelling the scent of the paper and ink, create a multi-sensory experience that enhances cognitive development. These sensory interactions stimulate fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and special awareness in children. Research shows that the printed book offers a better understanding of the special relationship between words, sentences and paragraphs. Physical manipulation of the pages in a book encourages engagement, making reading a more immersive and enjoyable experience for children.

Enhance focus and deep comprehension

Digital devices used for reading often come with distractions such as notifications and games, which can easily divert children’s attention away from the content of the e-book. Physical books provide a more focused environment, allowing children to concentrate solely on the narrative in the book. While many e-books have interactive features that can make reading more engaging for children, these features can also be distracting.

Encourage creativity

When children are able to see the words on the page they are better able to envision the story. Additionally, children’s books often have illustrations that can spark children’s imagination. As their imaginations are nurtured, this can lead to children coming up with their own stories and characters, thus enhancing creativity.

Improve emotional connection and bonding

Printed books provide opportunities for bonding between children and their caregivers. When a parent reads to a child it fosters a sense of closeness and emotional security. Children can discuss the story, ask questions, and share their thoughts and opinions, fostering language development, critical thinking skills, and social connections.

Build vocabulary

Children learn new words by seeing them in print and hearing them spoken aloud. With the printed book it is easier for children to flip pages backwards and forwards and take another look at words and illustrations, to better grasp and retain their meaning. Printed books encourage deep reading, in contrast with e-books which tend to encourage shallow learning. Digital books tend to be read at a faster pace, thus making it likely for children to skip over words.

Lessen eye strain

E-books are back lit, which means that a constant stream of light is emitted as you read. This light can irritate eyes and may also cause eye strain. Print books have no back light so eyes should not feel fatigued.

Amplify the joy of reading

Research has shown that, overall, physical books can actually make persons feel happier due to their tangible nature, reduced distractions, and improved comprehension.

It is clear that traditional printed books cultivate in children a passion for reading and provide a solid foundation for learning and growth. By embracing the printed book we can ensure that young minds continue to experience the joy, wonder, and transformative power of reading for generations to come. Let us continue to embrace the magic of the printed book.

Dr Karla Hylton is the founder and CEO of Your Empowerment Solutions (YES) Institute, offering mathematics and science tutoring as well as a host of workshops for parents, teachers, and students. She is the author of Yes! You Can Help Your Child Achieve Academic Success, and Complete Chemistry for Caribbean High Schools. Contact her at (876) 564-1347; e-mail: ceo@yes-institute.com; or visit www.yes-institute.com, or www.khylton.com.