A Fireside Chat on the Importance of Reading: Insights from Ms. Anubha Mishra, Bal Bhawan School, Bhopal

In a recent interview with Rakshit Mohan from StudentEdge, Ms. Anubha Mishra, the Vice Principal of Bal Bhawan School in Bhopal, shared her profound insights on the importance of reading and the role it plays in a child’s development. The conversation covered a wide range of topics, from the challenges faced in modern education to the various initiatives undertaken by the school to foster a culture of reading among students. This essay delves into the key themes discussed during the interview, offering valuable lessons for children, parents, teachers, and school authorities.

The Importance of Reading

Reading is foundational to a child’s skills and overall development. Ms. Mishra emphasized that reading is one of the most important habits a child can inculcate. She explained that reading not only enhances vocabulary and language skills but also develops critical thinking, empathy, and imagination. Through reading, children are exposed to diverse perspectives and experiences, which broadens their understanding of the world.

However, Ms. Mishra acknowledged a decline in reading habits among children, attributing this to distractions such as the internet and visual media. She noted that while technology offers many benefits, it also poses challenges, as children may prefer quick, visual content over the slower, more reflective process of reading. Despite these challenges, the importance of reading remains paramount. Ms. Mishra pointed out that reading enhances cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving and analytical thinking. It also provides a wealth of information and stimulates the imagination, aiding in the development of cognitive skills.

Ms. Mishra also highlighted the psychological benefits of reading, noting that completing a book can boost self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment. She emphasized that the habit of reading can be a lifelong source of pleasure and knowledge, contributing to personal growth and mental well-being.

Fostering a Reading Culture in Schools

At Bal Bhawan School, several initiatives have been taken to encourage reading among students. One such program involves children spending 15 minutes reading daily. This initiative aims to make reading a regular part of the students’ routine, helping to cultivate a habit that they can carry into adulthood.

For younger students, reading corners are set up in their classes with a variety of books to choose from, fostering an early love for reading. These corners provide a quiet and comfortable space where children can explore books at their own pace. The school’s library is designed to be an interactive space where students can explore and discuss books. Celebrating Authors Day every month is one of the initiatives to foster a deeper connection with literature. During these events, students learn about different authors, their works, and their contributions to literature, which helps to ignite their interest in reading.

The school also integrates library activities with classroom learning and extracurricular activities, making reading a central part of the educational experience. Ms. Mishra spoke about the challenges educators face in modern times and the need for adaptability and continuous learning. Teachers are encouraged to update their knowledge and prepare thoroughly for classes, highlighting the role of continuous learning. The school has a book club called “Bookworm,” which encourages reading among both students and teachers. This club provides a platform for book discussions, reviews, and recommendations, fostering a community of readers within the school.

Role of Parents in Promoting Reading

Parents play a crucial role in modeling reading behavior. Ms. Mishra observed that parents often tell their children to read, but the children do not listen. She noted that parents may not themselves read in front of their children, and children often emulate what they see. To address this issue, the school organizes workshops to educate parents on reading and how to encourage it at home. These workshops aim to help parents understand why they should read, how and what they could read, and how they could model reading behavior for their kids.

Ms. Mishra stressed the importance of creating a reading-friendly environment at home. This includes having a variety of books available, setting aside dedicated reading time, and discussing books with children. By demonstrating their own love for reading, parents can inspire their children to develop a similar passion.

Personal Reading Experiences and Recommendations

Ms. Mishra shared her personal journey with reading, influenced by her father, an acclaimed newsreader. Her early exposure to reading has had a lasting impact on her, highlighting the long-term influence of familial reading habits. She recalled fond memories of her father reading stories to her when she was young, which instilled in her a love for stories and books.

She recommended several books for children, emphasizing classics and contemporary favorites, such as Enid Blyton and Ruskin Bond. Ms. Mishra expressed a preference for physical books over digital ones because of the tactile experience they offer. She explained that holding a physical book, turning its pages, and even the smell of the paper are integral parts of the reading experience. However, she acknowledged the coexistence of print and digital media, emphasizing that the purpose of reading should guide the choice. She noted that while digital books are convenient and accessible, they cannot fully replicate the experience of reading a physical book.

Creative and Fun Engagement with Reading

To make reading a dynamic and interactive experience, Ms. Mishra encouraged creative engagement through fun writing prompts and discussions around books. The school encourages discussions and activities around books, making reading a dynamic and interactive experience. For instance, students might be asked to write about what they would do if they could be invisible for a day, sparking their creativity and making the reading experience more engaging.

The school also organizes events such as book fairs, author visits, and reading competitions to make reading a more social and enjoyable activity. These events provide opportunities for students to interact with authors, discover new books, and share their reading experiences with peers.

Conclusion

This conversation with Ms. Anubha Mishra reveals valuable insights into the importance of reading, the role of educators and parents, and the myriad ways in which a reading culture can be cultivated among children. By incorporating these practices, we can inspire a love for reading that will benefit students throughout their lives. Reading is not just a habit but a lifelong friend, offering endless opportunities for growth, learning, and enjoyment. The combined efforts of schools, parents, and the community can create an environment where reading thrives, ensuring that children develop the skills and passion needed to become lifelong readers.

StudentEdge is delighted to bring Ms. Mishra’s insightful words to our readers. Her passion for reading and her vision of a nation united through literature resonate deeply with our mission. As we continue to explore the world of reading through books and newspaper, we invite readers of all ages to join us on this enriching journey. Let’s transform non-readers into avid readers, one page at a time!