Put down your phone and open a book. Many young people today do not read nearly as much as they should. Phones, television and other electronics distract them from sitting long enough not only to read, but even to let ideas sink in.
Over the past decade, there has been a significant decline in how much young people read. New technology and digital entertainment have contributed to shorter attention spans. When asked what makes young people less interested in reading, Mrs. Lyons, an IHS English and theater teacher, said, “Reading is not part of our culture anymore. We go straight for a phone nowadays. It once was that everyone carried a book instead, and that was entertainment before technology.” New generations often turn to screens instead of pages. As a result, concerns about literacy and reading comprehension have increased over the past decade.
Reading does not have to be only for classwork. It can also be entertainment. Many young people overlook that fact. They may think the material assigned in school is boring and never pick up another book again. However, every person has different interests, and there is a book for everyone. It’s like a shoe, you just need to find the right one fit for you.
Mr. Neil, a social studies teacher, expressed a similar idea when asked why young people should read: “It broadens your world, it improves your thinking, and it’s fun.” Beyond entertainment, reading is also beneficial. When asked how reading affects young people in and out of school, Mrs. Lyons said, “It makes you smarter. Everything I know I read in a book. It helps increase vocabulary, historical knowledge and overall intelligence.”
Reading supports literacy, strengthens vocabulary and improves information retention. It also strengthens the mind and has been linked to long-term cognitive health. Studies suggest regular reading may help reduce memory decline with age and improve emotional intelligence. It can also serve as an effective way to relieve stress after a long day.
So do yourself a favor, put down the phone and start reading.
Zoey Motto is a senior and a first-year reporter for the High Arrow. She works at Martin’s and enjoys reading and listening to music. She enjoys spending time with friends and family, and long walks. She is excited to learn new writing styles for the High Arrow.
