Due to a variety of reasons, such as varying interests and preferences, early life experiences, and societal expectations, girls frequently read more than boys.
Here’s a closer look at the reasons:
Early Life Experiences: The Impact of Parents: According to studies, fathers are less likely than girls to read to their sons, which may have an effect on how boys establish their reading habits.
Role Models: Since children tend to imitate the actions of those around them, sons may be less exposed to male reading role models if fathers are less inclined to read.
SPIKE’S OPINION: I think that these assumptions are probably true. As a mother myself to both a boy and a girl, I definitely feel that my love of reading has had a direct influence on my daughter. I do read with my son and so does my husband (occasionally) but the same love of books is definitely not there.
Gender Roles and Social Expectations:
“Feminine” vs. “Masculine” Activities: Boys may be encouraged to participate in more physically demanding activities, whilst reading is occasionally seen as a more “feminine” pastime.
Avoiding “Girlie” hobbies: In an effort to fit in with society’s ideals of masculinity, boys may steer clear of hobbies that can be viewed as “girlie,” such as reading.
Preferences and Interests:
Preferences for Books and Reading Material: Boys may have a preference for non-fiction or genres such as action or sports, whereas girls may have a choice for fiction or romance.
Reading for Pleasure vs. School: Boys may prioritise reading for academic reasons, which can result in less time spent reading outside of school, whereas girls may be more inclined to read for pleasure.
SPIKE’S OPINION: Using my own 2 children as examples here. My daughter just LOVES to read, she carries her book everywhere, reading it at every moment she can! It is lovely to see but occasionally I have to tell her to stop and get herself ready for school instead! My son is so opposite to this. He very very rarely picks up a book voluntarily (he’d rather be outside kicking a ball or playing) and when he does, his first words are ‘how long do I have to read for?’ or ‘how many pages do you want me to read?’. I often tell him that it isn’t about ME wanting you to read, that you should WANT to pick up a book and read for pleasure and fun. A massive way round this, has been to find the genre of books that he does enjoy – sports related books, adventure books etc. I doubt he will ever love books as much as my daughter but then again his strengths lie in other areas also!
AND TO REMEMBER, THAT IF IT WASN’T FOR MY SON AND HIS “RELUCTANCE” TO ENGAGE WITH READING THEN THERE WOULD NEVER HAVE BEEN ‘SPIKE’S SIGHT WORDS’ SO IT ISN’T THAT BAD AFTER ALL!
