The benefits of reading

Image shows a child reading a braille and text certificate

Many children read and enjoy stories in their own way. Here are a few reasons why reading matters for children with vision impairment of all ages.

Enjoyment and imagination

Reading helps children to develop their imagination and make sense of the world around them. When a child reads independently, they create their own picture of what’s happening shape by their life experiences and the story itself.

Through books, children can explore new situations and new places, ideas and emotions as well as reinforcing familiar experiences. They might read about starting a new school, travelling to an alien world, or learn about friendships and family.

“Reading is the key that opens doors to many good things in life”

— Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Connection, wellbeing and understanding

When a child reads with their parents or other family members, they have an opportunity to talk about their thoughts and opinions with people close to them.

It can also be a calming part of the bedtime routine. It’s a low energy activity that helps children wind down and feel ready to sleep.

Shared reading can open conversations about disability and difference too. Stories can help families talk about vision impairment and understanding that the world isn’t always inclusive, but change is possible.

BookTrust has a great list of stories that can help children explore disability as a theme:

Disability and books | BookTrust

You can also find children’s books featuring characters with vision impairment in the RNIB Library’s Kids and Teens section:

Kids & Teens | RNIB Library

Education, employment and life skills

From an early age, reading provides access to teaching and learning opportunities, enabling access to education, independence and future employment.

As children grow older, reading helps them manage everyday tasks like filling in forms, checking statements, and reading or writing letters and emails.

Strong reading skills can also open the door to many careers, from applying for jobs to succeeding in the workplace.