Far far away

FAR FAR AWAY

Overview

Far Far Away is a book subscription service for children which provides both digital books and physical books. It provides book recommendations based on each child’s reading ability rather than the expected level of reading for their age. This allows them to develop their reading skills at a pace which is right for them.

Semester one

Defining the problem

One in four children in the UK hasn't reached the expected level of reading by the age of 11.

With the varying reading abilities of children, it can be difficult to determine what books are best suited for them. They are often given books which are too difficult or too easy. Both issues can cause frustration and an aversion to reading.

The lack of reading has a domino effect on many aspects of the child’s life. The obvious is their educational development e.g. literacy skills. Books can teach children about the world around them and without this, they can have ignorance of certain things and lack empathy.

Research

As well as looking at online resources to educate myself on the topic, I made two surveys to answer questions I had and confirm the research I had already done.

I decided to survey parents and teachers to get a wide view of the subject. The majority of the teachers who responded had 10+ years of experience which gives a good perspective on how children’s reading habits have changed over the years.

What are teachers saying?

I have noticed a decrease in the attention span of children

I have noticed a decrease in the reading ability of children.

Children are reading enough at home.

It is important that children are given books based on their reading ability rather than their age group.

Most of my children don’t enjoy reading due to finding it difficult which creates a negative cycle of reluctant readers

A lack of reading can cause “lack of confidence”, “lack of imagination”, “limited vocabulary”, “spelling difficulties”.

...parents are not pushing their children at home to read