We can all think back to a childhood favourite—our favourite meal, our favourite toy, or our favourite bedtime story. Thinking back fondly, we can connect the joys of reading about our favourite book characters with the spark of curious, creative, childish imagination! A child’s imagination is something worth preserving for as long as possible, and with it, the joy of endless possibilities it fosters.
Research completed in 2023 by the University of York found that reading books stimulates the imagination more effectively than watching television. The findings also support the common belief that screen time diminishes the brain’s imaginative capacity.
“Some screen-time is fine, but balancing this out with things like reading, interacting with other people, exercising outdoors seems to be the best way to protect our imaginative capabilities,” says Dr Sebastian Suggate from the University of York.
Reading is believed to be one of the best ways to foster imagination, open young minds to new ideas and perspectives, and understand new concepts. The benefits of a vivid imagination result in creativity, innovation and curiosity, all positive additions to society.
The next time parents recognise their children loving a particular character or make-believe universe, they should be creative and incorporate related props or costumes into playtime.
Written by: Kimberly Cullinan
[1] Reading sparks the imagination much more than watching TV | Study Finds 08.12.2023 https://studyfinds.org/reading-sparks-imagination/?nab=0&utm_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F
[2] Reading Enhances Imagination | World Literacy Foundation 04.08.2021 https://worldliteracyfoundation.org/reading-enhances-imagination/