Encouraging Children to Read: Authors Inspire Lincoln Students
In Lincoln this week, children are celebrating the joy of reading at an event featuring acclaimed writers Frank Cottrell-Boyce and Cressida Cowell. Children from Welton St Mary’s CE Primary Academy are among the attendees, with assistant head teacher James Durkan emphasising the importance of nurturing reading habits from an early age.
Mr Durkan highlighted the challenge of balancing technology and reading. “After a long school day, it’s easy to grab an iPad or PlayStation controller. However, encouraging children to read at home is essential,” he said.
The school’s pupils were split in their preferences between books and technology. Riley, 10, admitted he enjoys gaming but recognised the addictive nature of screens and the calming effect of reading. Oscar, 10, firmly preferred books, stating they offer a more peaceful experience than technology. Meanwhile, Eliza, 9, shared her fondness for both, committing to reading an hour each night.
Frank Cottrell-Boyce, the UK’s children’s laureate, has voiced concerns over the decline in reading for pleasure, while Cressida Cowell, author of How to Train Your Dragon, stressed that screen time competes for children’s attention. Both authors advocate for more author-led events to inspire a love for books and recommend parents read with their children daily. Read More
