How Mobile Phones and Screens Can Affect a Child’s Reading

In today’s world, screens are everywhere—TVs, tablets, and mobile phones are a big part of daily life. While technology has its benefits, too much screen time can make it harder for kids to develop strong reading habits. Here’s why:

Screens Can Take Away Focus from Books

Children who spend a lot of time on phones or tablets may get used to quick, flashy entertainment, making it harder for them to focus on books. Unlike apps or videos that provide instant feedback, reading requires patience and imagination—skills that take time to build.

Swiping vs. Turning Pages

Many kids today are more familiar with swiping a screen than turning a real book’s pages! This can make books feel “less exciting” compared to the fast-moving images on a phone. But holding a physical book, flipping pages, and pointing at words help build important pre-reading skills that screens don’t provide.

Reading vs. Passive Watching

When kids watch videos, they consume information passively. But when they read a book, they actively engage with words, pictures, and ideas. Reading strengthens memory, comprehension, and creativity—while too much screen time can lead to shorter attention spans.

Screens Before Bed Can Disrupt Sleep

If kids use screens before bedtime, the bright light can interfere with sleep. Reading a physical book instead helps them relax, leading to better sleep and stronger learning abilities the next day.

How to Balance Screen Time & Reading

Set Screen-Free Reading Time – Encourage 15-30 minutes of book time before bed instead of screen time.
Swap Screens for Storytime – If they love watching cartoons, find books with the same characters to spark interest.
Create No-Screen Zones – Keep books in easy-to-reach places like the car, the kitchen, or next to their bed.
Be a Reading Role Model – If kids see you reading a book instead of scrolling, they’ll be more likely to do the same.

Technology isn’t all bad—there are great educational apps and audiobooks that can support reading. But nothing replaces the magic of holding a book, turning pages, and imagining a story coming to life!