Profiling the Reading Habits of Children in Singapore

Abstract

The leisure reading contributes significantly in improving language competencies of children. This study investigates the reading habits and preferences of children, motivations behind reading, and their attitude towards reading. A pre-tested questionnaire was used for collecting data and 440 upper primary students participated in the study. The findings suggest that a majority of the participating students were motivated to read for academically-related reasons, such as to improve language skills and to obtain better grades in examinations. Reading was the third most preferred leisure activity after hobbies and playing on computer or the Internet. It was also found that girls were generally more avid readers than boys. This paper offers certain suggestions for promoting reading habits among children.