Listening to the voices of children on our programme

We want to hear directly from children on our programme about what they think of their reading sessions. We ran play-based focus groups to find out more about their attitudes towards reading, and what they valued most.

Children talked about not having someone to read with at home, and how much they wanted to share their reading experiences with an adult. They had unanimously positive attitudes towards their Bookmark volunteers, and particularly valued the opportunity to read in a fun, engaging and kind environment.

Do children have someone to read with at home?

“I read to myself and my pillow. I don’t read with no one because no one at home likes reading.”

“I don’t get to read with anyone.”

“I like to read with someone so they can help and see me.”

How children feel about reading with their Bookmark volunteer:

“I love it – because I love learning new words. I struggle on some words – not all, just a little bit, so I just really like to read with someone.”

“I love it because if I am stuck, and no one helps me out, I’d be stuck and I won’t be able to read.”

“I feel happy when it’s reading time and very laughy.”

I’m supposed to be helping them, but without knowing it, they help me. Lifted my spirits, made me smile, and gave me a positivity boost.

– Bookmark volunteer