Norwegian kindergarten combats decline in parents reading to children with weekly reading groups and seed library

A study from 2024 reveals a decline in the number of parents reading aloud to their children. Espira Drangerskogen kindergarten in Raufoss, Norway, has taken the initiative to encourage reading among children through weekly reading groups. The kindergarten believes they play a significant role in bridging social gaps concerning reading habits. Parents reading to their children is essential for children’s vocabulary and love for reading. However, the figures for this activity are declining. A good vocabulary aids children in expressing themselves, sharing thoughts and feelings, and understanding life contexts. The kindergarten also has a “Seed Library” to promote the joy of reading.

Espira Drangerskogen kindergarten embraces a culture of reading. Helge Andre Jøndal, the educational leader and language liaison at the kindergarten, says they always encourage reading. He believes the kindergarten has a significant role to play in balancing reading disparities among children.

The study shows a decline in the percentage of parents reading to their children. In 2017, 93% of parents with children under ten years old read to their children, whereas in 2023, this figure dropped to 75%. A good reading session fosters security and strengthens relationships, forming the basis for emotional, social, cognitive, linguistic, and literacy development.

A robust vocabulary helps children stand up for themselves, share thoughts, and feelings. It also enables them to explore and understand life connections. Failure to learn this from an early age might lead to a loss of language expression. Jøndal says that inadequate reading can result in more significant problems at school and could impair a child’s social skills.

The kindergarten also promotes digital platforms as long as they do not interfere with reading. They acknowledge that digital platforms can be a threat to reading.

Espira Drangerskogen is among the 16 kindergartens in Norway with a “Seed Library,” offering good books for children to borrow. They focus on promoting the joy of reading. They advise parents to introduce children to an environment where they can flip through physical books, regularly visit the library, and never deny children the chance to read aloud. They also recommend creating a cozy reading time with their children.