See how kids’ reading habits evolved in 2021 post pandemic.
Last year we released our first-of-its-kind report about the reading preferences and habits of kids in 2020, examining what their habits were and the impact of reading on their emotional well-being. The results showed reading was up–and that books had a hugely positive impact on kids during a challenging year.
In 2021, as schools reopened—along with playgrounds, amusement parks, sports and more—results showed that kids were still reading. One billion books, to be exact. Read on for even more eye-opening insights from the report.
Reading is still going strong.
This year’s findings reinforced what researchers have known for decades: reading begets more reading. From 2019 to 2020, kids increased their reading by 89% and numbers did not decline during 2021. In fact, reading habits cultivated even more reading. Kids wanted to read—and be read to—more often and for longer. They even chose reading over passive activities like video games.
Escape & exploration were hits.
As schools reopened in 2021, kids craved excitement—from their books. Favorite topics in 2021 included Adventure and Fantasy books filled with magic and mythical creatures. Then, as they began spending more time exploring the world outside their homes, they also spent more time exploring new worlds in books.
Books were there for parents & kids.
Books helped parents of little kids, especially ages 5-7, with tough conversations. Nearly 70% of parents surveyed with kids that age used books for discussions about climate change, and 65% used books for discussions about mental health.
We love these three Cs.
The research shows reading also supported emotional well-being, with parents reporting positive traits like creativity, confidence and curiosity after reading. They noticed their kids experienced fewer negative emotions like anger, sadness and anxiety after spending time with their books.
It’s been fascinating to see how the events of the past couple of years have transformed the reading habits of kids, and in particular how kids use books to learn and explore in their post-pandemic worlds. We hope that these insights help guide you in your journey as you seek high-quality books to get your kid excited to start reading, to keep reading–and never stop.
StateOfKidsReadingReport_FINALHere’s the report! You can also download it here.
Epic commissioned global research firm Morning Consult to conduct independent research on this topic. Morning Consult is a global data intelligence company delivering insights on what people think in real time.
