International Volunteers Day: Why we’re reading with children at a local primary school

Every Tuesday morning since October, volunteers from the Floris Books team have been visiting a local primary school as part of the Paired Reading scheme. This brilliant project, run by Business in the Community Scotland, connects companies with schools where volunteers will read together with children in order to help improve their reading skills.

It’s a simple idea, but studies have shown that just an hour of reading per week with a Paired Reading volunteer can increase children’s reading age by as much as 6 months in as little as 12 weeks. Not only that, it can help to increase children’s enjoyment of reading, as well as improving their self-confidence, motivation and communication skills, particularly where English is their second language.

So, what do the Floris Books volunteers think about the project?

Leah – Design & Production Manager

As a children’s book designer I create for kids every day, but I rarely get to see how the books are actually used and enjoyed. The Paired Reading scheme has taught me more about the impact the design of our books has on readers while allowing me to increase the joy of reading for those in my local community. Plus, primary schools are filled with such energy that it’s been wonderful just spending time in one!

Richard – Designer

I’ve found it fascinating to see young readers interacting with books – especially how they follow a story and respond to illustrations (it’s not always as you might think!) It’s certainly given me a whole new insight into book design from a reader’s perspective.

It’s also been lovely to hear the children get so much enjoyment out of books and to see them grow in confidence over the weeks. Although having explained what my job is to one of my readers, every time we pick up a book I get asked “did you make this one?”.

Susan – Office Manager

With my own daughters long grown up, I’m enjoying having another go at sharing my love of books and reading. It’s amazing to think that spending even a short amount of one-to-one time with pupils can result in a positive improvement in their confidence and reading ability.

Jennie – Editor

Taking part in the Paired Reading scheme has been such a positive experience. It’s been lovely to see how initially quite reluctant readers grow into children who can’t wait to explore a new story. It’s been a complete eye-opener in terms of really understanding how young readers interact with words and illustrations – something that will definitely have a bearing on how I approach editing in the future.

It’s also been a great excuse to enjoy some of my favourite childhood books all over again – reading Funnybones is never a bad way to start the day.

Kirsten – Marketeer

As someone who has always loved books, it’s exciting to see the children’s enthusiasm for reading grow as they become more fluent readers. As a marketeer, I’ve found it really interesting to chat to the children about the kind of things they like and don’t like to see in books – which is obviously very different for different readers!

To find out more about the Paired Reading scheme, visit Business in the Community Scotland’s website.

Are you wrestling with a reluctant reader of your own? Find out about Marketing Manager Suzanne’s experience on our Discover Kelpies blog.