So far being a student at South has been a whirlwind, but I have learned a lot, academically of course, but also from observing my peers and by paying attention to their habits, along with the trends around me.
One thing I have noticed recently is how many students don’t read anymore. Naturally, we have to read for our classes, but most of my classmates rarely read for leisure. I believe that students should be reading for enjoyment.
As a self-proclaimed “reader,” I love discussing books. When talking to a friend or classmate, it is not uncommon for a book I’ve read to come up. I am often met with looks that tell me the other person is not interested in book talk. When I ask, “What do you read?” I have come to expect the answer, “I don’t.” This makes me wonder, is there anyone who does read anymore?
A 2020 study conducted by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) asked students aged nine to 13 how often they read for fun. The percentage of children and teens reading for enjoyment daily is at the lowest level since the 80s. Among the 13-year-olds surveyed, only 17 percent agreed that they read for pleasure, and a shocking 29 percent said they hardly or never read for fun.
This is one trend that no one should follow. It is heartbreaking that so many young people are missing out on the joys of recreational reading. It seems they would rather mindlessly scroll on social media than pick up a book.
The advantages of recreational reading are abundant. One of the most important is the positive effects on mental health. Negative emotions have students reaching for their phones for distraction and relaxation. However, phones often increase stress levels, whereas reading promotes better mental health, decreases stress and increases creativity.
Research collected by the National Library of New Zealand shows people who read for leisure habitually demonstrate improved mental well-being with reduced stress and anxiety. Reading is widely known as a scholarly activity as well, so it should be no surprise that recreational reading positively impacts grades and test scores.
I try to read daily. When I fall out of the habit, I notice that my grades suffer. When I am not reading, I find it harder to focus in class and I am less productive with homework. I tend to bounce back instantaneously once I fall back into the habit.
Additional information collected by the National Library of New Zealand proves that recreational reading supports cognitive functioning and stamina and boosts overall academic achievement. Studies show that students participating in recreational reading earn consistently higher standardized test scores and have more motivation in school.
If nothing else persuades you, maybe the results on academic performance will. When It comes to reading for leisure, there is almost nothing better you can do for your brain. Students should read more for enjoyment, since the benefits are unmatched. Next time you want to reach for your phone, reach for a book instead.
