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Reading for Pleasure

Reading is one of the most powerful ways young people can develop knowledge, confidence and creativity. While reading supports success across all subjects, it also offers benefits that extend far beyond the classroom.

Research consistently shows that students who regularly read for pleasure achieve higher levels of literacy, develop stronger vocabulary and demonstrate greater academic success. The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development has found that enjoyment of reading is a stronger predictor of educational success than socioeconomic background, while studies from the National Literacy Trust show that children who enjoy reading are significantly more likely to read above the expected level for their age. Research also highlights links between reading for pleasure, improved wellbeing, empathy and a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Students who regularly read for pleasure are more likely to

  • Develop stronger vocabulary and communication skills;
  • Improve their reading fluency and comprehension;
  • Achieve better academic outcomes across a range of subjects;
  • Increase their knowledge of the world and different perspectives;
  • Build empathy, resilience and emotional wellbeing;
  • Develop greater independence and confidence as learners; and
  • Most importantly, reading for pleasure helps young people discover interests, explore new ideas and experience the enjoyment that comes from becoming absorbed in a great book.

Supporting Your Child's Reading at Home
Parent(s)/carer(s) play a vital role in helping young people develop positive reading habits. Even as children become more independent readers, encouragement from home remains extremely important. You can do this by

  1. Make time for reading at home. Encourage your child to read regularly, even if it is only for 10 to 20 minutes each day. Consistent reading habits have a significant impact over time;
  2. Show an interest in what your child reads. Ask your child about what they are reading and encourage conversations about books, articles, magazines or online texts. Straightforward questions such as, "What is your book about?"; "Which character do you find most interesting?"; "What surprised you in your reading today?"; and/or "Would you recommend it to a friend? Why?";
  3. Provide choice. Young people are more likely to read when they have ownership over their choices. Reading does not have to be limited to novels. Graphic novels, biographies, magazines, newspapers, poetry and quality online articles all contribute to reading development;
  4. Be a reading role model. Children and young people are influenced by what they see at home. Talking about books you have enjoyed or setting aside time for your own reading can help reinforce positive attitudes towards reading;
  5. Encourage visits to libraries. Local libraries provide free access to a wide range of books and resources. Regular visits can help students discover new authors and genres that match their interests;
  6. Create a 'reading friendly' environment. A quiet, comfortable space without distractions can help establish reading as part of a daily routine. Keeping books readily available at home also encourages regular engagement with reading; and
  7. Reading beyond school. Reading is a lifelong skill that opens doors to learning, opportunity and personal growth. By working together, home and school can help all young people develop the confidence, curiosity and enjoyment that come from reading regularly.

We encourage all families to celebrate reading in whatever form it takes and to support their child in becoming a confident, enthusiastic reader for life.