Kids from wealthier families read more at libraries: study
According to a report by the Korea Institute of Child Care and Education, children and teenagers from wealthier households read significantly more library books and start visiting libraries at a younger age than those from less affluent families. The study revealed a roughly 2.5-fold gap in monthly library reading between the highest income category, which averaged 11.8 books, and the lowest category, which averaged 4.7 books. Furthermore, children from the highest income group began using libraries at an average age of 5.8, compared to 8.4 years old for the lowest group.
The research also highlighted differences based on parents' or caregivers' occupations, with children of homemakers averaging 12.3 books per month, compared to 9.4 for professionals and 9.2 for office or managerial workers. Additionally, reading enjoyment scores on a 100-point scale were higher for wealthier children at 63.7, dropping to 49.1 for the lowest income group. However, researchers noted that these figures reflect correlations rather than direct causation between income, occupation, and reading habits.
In response to the findings, researchers have emphasized the need to strengthen local reading infrastructure and improve library access for underserved communities. They also recommended providing greater support for parents and caregivers to help young children engage with books early on. The data was drawn from the National Library for Children and Young Adults’ survey of 1,500 children and teenagers aged 3 to 18.
Edited using generative AI tools.
Source: https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10919594 |
