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We live in a world of constant notifications, screens, and busy schedules, so finding uninterrupted time to read can be difficult. Having a date and location for reading in the diary is proving popular with local families and, we hope, will encourage children and adults to think of reading as a pleasurable habit.

Our Summer Reading Sessions take place in cafés, community hubs, bookshops and gardens across the region, to show children that reading can happen anywhere, not just in school. By linking reading to pleasure – something you can do in a beautiful place, or a cosy corner with a nice drink – we are promoting enjoyment in reading. More than that, it is a break from the world of screens … an escape … a retreat … a treat.

Professor Manon Jones, co-lead for CAL:ON Cymru has always highlighted how important joy of reading is when it comes to improving literacy outcomes:

“Whilst CAL:ON Cymru is working with schools to develop reading skill in the classroom, we also know that reading can be such a pleasure in life. We hope these sessions encourage people to make time for reading over the summer – something that many of us struggle to do, even with the best intentions!” 

Summer Reading Sessions are planned for the summer holidays, but we want to keep the concept going throughout the year. And not just during the National Year of Reading! Creating habits takes time and consistency. With that in mind, we are looking at ways to keep holding time and space for reading, and to reach more people and places.

In addition to developing a package of support for schools to turn around literacy outcomes, CAL:ON Cymru wants to promote reading for fun. What kind of events do you think cultivate enjoyment in reading for both children and adults?