How to get children to read?

This is a small segment from the weekly literary program Ink&Quill.

If television was the drug of choice for previous generations, then digital media is the modern day obsession of today's youth.[Photo:womanjie.com]

In a recent panel discussion hosted by All-China Women's Federation,  Li Minyi , a researcher specializing in early childhood education, warned that parents have to get a grip on the fact that the prevalence of digital reading could be a double-edged sword.

"We have to admit that digital reading has its own merits. Some advanced technologies such as AI could help kids find in-depth context and expand their vocabulary. But at the same time, we need to see the downside. There is scientific evidence suggesting that the overuse of electronic devices will damage children's eyesight. Some scientists suspect these digital gadgets may increase the risk of attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder. We suggest parents prevent children younger than two from watching any form of digital screen, including TV.   "

In a panel discussion hosted by All-China Women Federation, researchers and experts share their opinions on how to brush up the reading skill of Chinese children. [Photo;Courtesy of KFC China]

So how to help childrento brush up on their reading skill? 

According to Wang Zhigeng, curator of the Children's Library at the National Library of China, parents are responsible for ensuring a child's success as a reader.

"First of all,  parents have to be book lovers. It's hard for me to imagine that someone who despises reading could set a good example for their kids. Secondly, you need to read books to your kids. Once you use your own voice, expression, body language,  and emotion to depict a story, unconsciously, you empathize with your children. Last but not least, parents need to communicate with children. Always read the same book with them, no matter how old they are. "

On April 20th, 2017, the China Children and Teeangers' Fund and KFC China work together to release a recommended reading list for little bookworms and a tutorial report on Chinese children's reading habits. [Photo:Courtesy of KFC China]

But how do you choose books that could be enjoyed by both parents and children?

Fortunately, someone is willing to help.

The China Children and Teeangers' Fund and KFC China work together to release a recommended reading list for little bookworms and a tutorial report on Chinese children's reading habits.

Targeted at different age groups, the reading list covers 78 books from all over the world.