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The Duchess of Cornwall: “Read to children every day of the year”

In a world where children become trained smartphone users at an early age and information is absorbed with the click of a button, the Duchess of Cornwall is reminding us of where we all read our first story.

Writing in the Sunday Express to mark the World Book Day, The Duchess of Cornwall is urging parents to at least to try to read to their children and grandchildren every day of the year.

Her Royal Highness wrote, “It is vital for children in their education and as they take their place in the grown-up world. But books can do so much more than convey facts and information, important though that is. Reading stories with children can fire their imaginations and get their brains buzzing unlike anything else.”

The Duchess went on to admit that in a world dominated by “too many screens and too much information”, a day to celebrate books might sound outmoded. She highlighted, however, that reading transcends a feeling of pleasure and joy.

“The power of a good story keeps us all turning the pages, absorbing new words and making us think.

“And through these exciting new worlds and amazing characters, they can also show us our own world and help us to understand the people who live in it.

“Not only does it give us pleasure but it leads them on a voyage of discovery and enrichment that only books can bring.”

This year, the 21st World Book Day is marked in the UK and other countries on the 1st of March. The occasion was designated by UNESCO as a worldwide celebration of books and reading as well as a day to appreciate the works of authors and illustrators.

According to the WorldBookDay.com, the main aim is to “encourage children to explore the pleasures of books and reading by providing them with the opportunity to have a book of their own.” Schools across the UK and Ireland will receive packs of Book Tokens and age-ranged World Book Day Resource Packs to engage young in reading activities.