I’m sure you would not be surprised that with the advent of social media, reading for pleasure is an activity that is declining in frequency. In fact, surveys rank reading very low when compared to different entertainment and media activities.

I recommend you view a TED talk titled ‘Why reading matters’ – https://www.ted.com/talks/rita_carter_why_reading_matters/transcript?language=en. This talk makes some very poignant points on how reading can be a workout for the brain.

Rita Carter, the presenter of this talk, says that we should not only read because our job or our education depends on it, but stresses the importance to read fiction, stories and narratives for pleasure.

Another interesting fact is Rita’s explanation of the difference between speaking and reading. While speaking is a natural phenomenon, reading has to be taught. Reading stimulates the neurons in our brain to create the pathways and networks similar to when we have a new experience or create a new memory.

So, while we all lead busy lives, let us continue to encourage reading for pleasure with our young people – our brain will love the workout and, amongst other things, it has been proven to improve critical thinking and memory.

I hope you have an enjoyable weekend and week ahead.

“There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island.” – Walt Disney

Mr Rino Randazzo
Acting Principal