Amid a national initiative to decrease screen time in schools, recent survey data reveals a significant decline in the amount of free time elementary and middle school students spend reading. The share of 13-year-olds who read for pleasure has dropped nearly 50% since 2012, while the percentage of 9-year-olds engaged in recreational reading has fallen by 16 points over the past 13 years. The findings, published by the Education Department’s National Center for Education Statistics, indicate a correlation between enjoyment of reading and improved performance on standardized tests. Although 37% of 9-year-olds reported reading for fun almost every day in 2025, this figure is down from 42% in 2020 and 53% in 1984. The data comes from a larger testing program involving over 30,000 students, which also assesses math and reading skills.
Why It Matters
The decrease in reading for pleasure among students may have long-term implications for literacy and academic performance. Historical data shows that consistent reading correlates with higher standardized test scores, emphasizing the need for recreational reading. The decline in reading frequency, particularly among older children, raises concerns about the impact of increased screen time on literacy development and overall educational outcomes. With reading skills foundational to learning, these trends underscore the importance of encouraging reading habits early in education to support future academic success.
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