Experts Urge Parents to Prioritize Reading Over Screens
At the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2025), experts emphasized the crucial role parents play in fostering early reading habits in children. With the increasing prevalence of screens in daily life, these professionals warned that excessive exposure can negatively impact creativity, concentration, and imagination.
The Impact of Screen Time on Children
During a panel discussion titled “Juggling Between Books and Screens: How Can We Restore Balance in Child Rearing?”, various experts shared insights on how families can nurture curiosity and cognitive development amidst a digital landscape. Dr. Muawiya Al-Aliwi, a pediatrician and author, highlighted the overstimulation caused by prolonged screen time. He explained that when children engage with fast-paced, colorful content, it triggers a dopamine response that can diminish their ability to concentrate and think creatively.
Dr. Al-Aliwi suggested that parents incorporate reading into their children’s daily routines to enhance focus and comprehension. He recommended reading short passages aloud and encouraging children to engage with the material through questions and creative writing. “Providing children with paper and a pen to express what they learned from a story can significantly boost their vocabulary and confidence,” he stated.
The Role of Books in Child Development
Children’s author Noor Arab also weighed in on the discussion, noting that while technology has transformed reading habits, traditional books remain essential for fostering creativity and tranquility. “In today’s digital age, children’s preferences have shifted, but nothing can replace the calming effect of reading a physical book before bedtime,” she remarked.
Arab emphasized the importance of parental attitudes toward reading. She observed that when parents demonstrate a love for books, it positively influences their children’s perceptions of reading. “Some families tell me their children don’t enjoy reading, but when parents value books, it changes the child’s attitude,” she explained. “Books empower children with imagination and creativity.”
The Future of Reading
Looking to the future, Arab predicted that while the format of books may evolve—potentially incorporating augmented reality—the fundamental act of reading will remain a vital component of learning and creative exploration. She believes that the essence of reading will continue to connect various forms of knowledge and imagination.
SIBF 2025, organized by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) under the theme ‘Between You and a Book’, will run until November 16 at Expo Centre Sharjah. This year’s fair features over 300 cultural events, with participation from 158 Arab and international guests, alongside more than 750 workshops in both Arabic and English covering topics such as writing, publishing, and creativity. Additionally, the event includes 85 stage performances from 12 countries, reinforcing Sharjah’s commitment to promoting reading as a fundamental aspect of knowledge and connection.
FAQs
Why is reducing screen time important for children?
Excessive screen time can overstimulate children’s brains, leading to decreased concentration and creativity. Engaging in reading and other activities can help improve their focus and imaginative thinking.
How can parents encourage their children to read more?
Parents can foster a love for reading by incorporating books into daily routines, reading aloud, and engaging children with questions about the stories. Encouraging creative writing based on what they read can also enhance their interest.
What role do physical books play in child development compared to digital formats?
Physical books provide a unique calming experience and foster imagination in ways that screens cannot. They also encourage deeper engagement and comprehension, which are crucial for cognitive development.
Conclusion
The discussions at SIBF 2025 underscore the importance of balancing screen time with reading to support children’s development. As parents take proactive steps to integrate reading into their children’s lives, they can help cultivate a generation that values creativity and imagination. Moving forward, it is essential for families to prioritize reading as a cornerstone of learning and personal growth.
Experts at the fair also noted the importance of creating a reading-friendly environment at home. This can include setting up cozy reading nooks, providing a variety of age-appropriate books, and limiting access to screens during designated reading times. Such practices can help children associate reading with comfort and enjoyment, further encouraging their engagement with literature.
Additionally, the role of schools and educators was highlighted as crucial in promoting reading habits. By integrating reading programs and encouraging parental involvement, schools can create a supportive ecosystem that nurtures a love for books. Collaboration between parents and educators can reinforce the message that reading is not only beneficial but also enjoyable, fostering a lifelong appreciation for literature.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, experts believe that finding a balance between screen time and reading will be essential for healthy child development. Ongoing dialogue among parents, educators, and children will be vital in navigating this challenge and ensuring that reading remains a cherished activity in an increasingly screen-dominated world.
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