Reading: why we need it!

Published: April 26th, 2026

Is Reading just one major area of learning in dire need of government attention? I think it is. For too long we have seen standards fall, as children have turned to screens instead of books. For too long, we have observed children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) being made to wait for a diagnosis of their learning difficulties – some of which relate to reading. Also, for far too long, children and parents have been let down by a National Curriculum that does not work for every child. Finally, is the teaching profession on its knees in its efforts to provide for every child? End of rant! Key question: what can be done to improve our education system – and enable every child to succeed according to potential? Reading is only one answer – but because reading and literacy form the foundations of all learning – it has the power (as the TESCO advert shouts out). Reading also defines humanity. Who are we, without reading? 

So, I feel excited about the launch of my booklet: Becoming a Reader, written for all those who are passionate about raising reading standards – especially in this Year of Reading 2026! Reading is fast losing ground in the struggle for interest and enjoyment in our school curriculum. So something must be done – urgently. But what? That is the question, as Shakespeare would say. But sadly, Shakespeare is not the answer. Not now – when the world has moved on, and young people need something more stimulating to whet their Reading appetites. 

Reading is not simply a subject learned at school: to be dispensed with at the close of the school day as children escape through the gates. On the contrary, becoming an efficient and effective reader affects our whole lives – post-school learning, employment – and our wellbeing. 

My booklet supports staff whose job it is to help children become accomplished readers. A simplified version is also aimed at interested parents, with lots of ideas for games and stimulating activities – linking paper and screens, to fully engage young minds.

Future blogs aim to focus and expand on parts of the booklet. What is meant by word, sentence or text level comprehension? Join me and find out! You have nothing to lose – and everything to gain! 

PS. Sylvia Edwards is author of fourteen books on education, mainly on literacy and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), plus a further five for parents. Now retired, she remains interested in, and passionate about, improving the educational outcomes for all young people, especially those with SEND. 

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