Spark an interest

Events like World Book Day, held earlier this month, shine a spotlight on the joy of reading. But let’s not forget the ongoing, everyday reading journeys that children of all ages can benefit from at school and at home. Finding ways to engage young readers, and sparking an interest in books in those who don’t already read for pleasure, are key aims of national reading charity, Scottish Book Trust. One of the programmes we run, the First Minister’s Reading Challenge, supports schools and communities to build and maintain a strong reading culture, and encourages children to explore a wide range of books outside the curriculum.

The Challenge is currently open to all primary schools in Scotland and, following its success, it is being expanded in September to include secondary schools, libraries and community groups. Families can get involved too, encouraging children’s reading by being role models, sharing and discussing what everyone is reading, so that children view reading as a positive, sociable life choice.

Scottish Book Trust is a charity, changing lives through reading and writing. Go to scottishbooktrust.com for a wide range of book suggestions for all ages. n