MPs Launch Inquiry into Decline in Reading for Pleasure

Whether it’s through the glossy pages of a magazine, a compelling novel, or an insightful article, reading for pleasure has long been an escape. However, current events indicate that this practice might be declining, particularly among younger generations. The consequences of MPs’ formal investigation into a “generational shift” in kids’ reading habits are profound.

Reading for enjoyment has long played a vital role in children’s learning, wellbeing and personal development. Yet recent data suggests the habit is fading, particularly among younger readers. As a company that provides magazines and other reading resources to support literacy, curiosity and connection, we see this as a moment to pause, reflect and contribute to a national conversation that truly matters.

What the Inquiry Is Investigating

To find out why fewer kids are choosing to read during their free time, the Education Select Committee has started a national investigation. Everything from school culture and reading material access to the impact of screens, digital formats, and changes in home environments will be covered.

Source: UK Parliament Education Committee

Helen Hayes MP, the chair of the committee, has cautioned about a possible “generational shift” in reading attitudes. She worried that kids might be losing the pleasure and advantages of reading for enjoyment. Additionally, this investigation is requesting evidence from organisations, researchers, parents, and educators.

We understand how crucial these voices will be and how much they can influence the outcome because DLT Media works with thousands of schools and educational settings throughout the United Kingdom.

The Reality of the Decline

The National Literacy Trust’s recent findings reveal a stark pattern.

• Only 34.6 per cent of children aged 8 to 18 said they enjoyed reading in their free time in 2024.
• Daily reading rates have dropped to just over 20 per cent.
• Their 2025 data shows enjoyment levels continuing to fall, especially among younger pupils.

Sources: hacdn.org, schoollitnet.org.uk

Many kids who used to read a lot now use smartphones, tablets, or streaming services in their spare time. Although digital literacy is crucial, there is growing worry that leisure reading is being neglected. This is not just a concerning trend. It runs the risk of increasing educational disparities, compromising wellbeing, and affecting kids’ creativity and curiosity.

Why This Matters to DLT Media

We witness first-hand how print materials can bring back the joy of reading in a way that is immediate, tangible, and approachable. Books are important, but magazines have a special power. Compared to longer texts, they are less intimidating, visually appealing, and simple to browse. They can rekindle a child’s interest in reading without the burden of finishing a lengthy book.

One of the librarians we work closely with put it perfectly:

“We truly value the benefits magazines bring to our students. Magazines play an important role in our Learning Resource Centre. They encourage reading for pleasure, support classroom discussions and provide an alternative to screen based content. In a world where students are increasingly drawn to digital devices, these resources help us promote literacy and engagement in a tangible way.”

Magazines frequently offer students who may have trouble focussing or gaining confidence the first step towards rediscovering their love of reading. They are curriculum enhancers and conversation starters for educators. Additionally, they provide the easiest way for families to rediscover the joy of reading.

For this reason, we think that the national dialogue about leisure reading should include magazines and other print materials. They are not an extras. They are an essential resource that meets kids where they are.

What the Inquiry Could Change

If the inquiry delivers strong recommendations, we may see positive shifts across education, community settings and family life. These could include:

• Greater investment in school libraries and reading corners
• Renewed attention to the importance of free reading time
• Stronger recognition of print media as a tool for re-establishing reading culture
• National campaigns to encourage families to read together
• More partnerships between schools, charities and businesses that support literacy, including providers of printed reading resources such as magazines.

The inquiry also aligns with the Government’s planned National Year of Reading in 2026, which aims to put reading back in the spotlight across the UK.

Challenges We Need to Acknowledge

There are still obstacles to overcome.

• Many schools face limited budgets
• Children increasingly rely on digital entertainment
• Families often have less time to support reading habits
• School libraries have experienced years of underfunding
• Reading can feel like a chore when linked too heavily to assessment

But none of these obstacles are insurmountable. Progress is definitely achievable with careful cooperation, access to interesting reading materials, and a fresh emphasis on pleasure rather than duty.

How We Can All Support Reading for Pleasure

Whether you are a parent, teacher, librarian or employer, there are practical ways to support reading culture.

• Provide varied reading materials that appeal to different interests. This can include books, comics, articles and magazines suitable for your setting.
• Create small moments for reading. It does not have to be an hour. Even ten minutes can help.
• Make reading visible. Display magazines in communal areas, have a shared reading box or set up themed reading corners.
• Celebrate reading. Invite children to recommend articles or stories they enjoyed, or create mini review boards.
• Advocate for reading for pleasure in your community. Share resources, support local libraries and encourage conversation around reading habits.

Looking Ahead

The investigation by the new MPs is crucial and timely. Children’s reading habits are undoubtedly evolving. However, this need not be a bad change. Alternatively, it might be a time of renewal. A moment to reconsider how we promote reading and revitalise it.

We at DLT Media are honoured to contribute. We are still dedicated to offering printed reading materials that make reading relevant, pleasurable, and accessible. A lifelong love of reading can frequently be restored by the smallest spark, and we think magazines play a significant role in that process.

As the investigation develops, we hope to share our knowledge, assist teachers, and keep promoting reading for enjoyment in every environment we work in.

We all have a part to play if the next generation is to rediscover the joy of reading. And we’re prepared.