PARENTS fear the beloved book is on its way out as kids increasingly handle pages like an iPad.
More than a third of children are trying to pinch pages to zoom or look for an “on” button, according to a new poll.
With the ever growing influence of tech and gadgets like tablets, almost eight in ten parents worry traditional books could be rendered obsolete, research by The Works suggests.
Screen-raised kids admit they struggle to concentrate and many only read because schools tell them to, almost half of those surveyed said.
Some 68 per cent now choose tech for games and apps, over reading.
And shockingly, half of parents avoid buying books because they claim they’re simply too expensive.
However, there is still some hope for the future of books.
Nearly half (49 per cent) of respondents said they do like to read for pleasure.
The findings come as The Works launches a new Find Your Story Book Bus tour in partnership with the National Literacy Trust, where free books are given out across the UK, starting in Wythenshawe, Manchester today.
“Books unlock imagination, confidence and creativity but, too many children simply don’t have access to them,” said Gavin Peck, CEO of The Works.
“While screens can be a helpful tool for many families to encourage reading, our role and our Find Your Story Book Bus is about bringing books directly into communities, giving every child a free book, and helping families rediscover the joy of reading together.
“Through our READ pledge and support of the National Year of Reading, we’re committed to inspiring a lifelong love of reading and ensuring more children across the UK can find their story.”
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