Chennai schools focus on 100-day reading challenge

Many primary schools are preparing for a 100-day reading challenge organized by the School Education Department. This initiative aims to improve children's reading skills. At Chennai Urdu Girls Primary School, the schedule has changed to accommodate a new reading program. Students in Classes III to V will now spend two extra hours in school. During this time, they will learn to read and select their favorite stories from newspapers. In Chennai Primary School, the headmistress has created a weekly schedule for reading showcases. Each class has a specific day to demonstrate their reading abilities. This approach encourages children to read not only textbooks but also storybooks and newspapers. The goal of the challenge is to develop a reading habit among students. However, some challenges exist. Many parents, who are often daily wage workers, do not prioritize reading at home. This makes it harder for children to retain what they learn in school. So far, Chennai Urdu Girls Primary School has completed 30 days of the reading program and hopes to finish by July 27. Teachers emphasize that support from home is crucial. They also note that during the pandemic, mobile lessons were effective, but now parents worry about too much screen time. Experts suggest that reading programs should be ongoing and that schools need a good collection of age-appropriate books. They also recommend having a trained librarian and a designated reading hour. A warm and inviting library space can inspire children to enjoy reading, leading to a gradual interest in books.