1 in 5 parents 'don't see the point in' reading to young children

24 Jun 2008

A fifth of parents with children under the age of five do not see the benefit of reading to them before they can walk or talk, it has been found.

According to a survey by All Top Books, a quarter of mums and dads either do not enjoy, struggle with, or do not have time for reading with their little ones.

Managing director of the firm Dilip Sinha said that the figures were "disappointing" and "concerning".

"Reading to a child is like opening a door to a big and exciting world, allowing them to hear sounds and see pictures that they may not get to see otherwise," she added, claiming that it "will help them grow, develop and bond with their parents".

Ms Sinha also said that he has seen children as young as four months old show interest in books, while little ones who may not be able to talk can often make the 'moo' sound at a picture of a cow.

A study published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood recommended that parents read aloud to their offspring as this can help them develop language and literacy skills.

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