As Book Reading Rates Decline Among Children, Audio Content Consumption Rises
The National Literacy Trust, a UK-based organisation focused on literacy, has found in its latest research that the rate of children and young people listening to audio content (audiobooks, podcasts) has surpassed that of reading books. In 2024, 42.3 percent of children aged 8-18 reported enjoying listening to audio content in their free time, whereas the percentage of those who enjoyed reading dropped to 34.6 percent, prompting concerns of a "reading crisis."
Education experts argue that audiobooks and podcasts could serve as a tool to foster reading habits. It is suggested that audio content can be particularly encouraging for reluctant readers, while also having a positive impact on children's creativity, learning process, and overall well-being.
The UK Department for Education has stated that audiobooks could be incorporated into teaching methods to enhance students’ love for reading. The department also announced that £23 million has been allocated for the 2024-2025 period to support reading initiatives and encourage literacy development.
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