Reading for pleasure builds empathy in children, but fewer kids are picking up books just for the fun of it

With schools increasingly emphasizing evidence-based reading instruction, there's a noticeable decline in children engaging in reading for pleasure, an activity crucial for developing empathy. Research shows that when kids read for fun, they better understand diverse perspectives, which is essential for emotional and social development. This shift not only impacts individual growth but also raises concerns about the broader implications for society's empathy levels as future generations may struggle with these skills.