Does your child retain more from screen reading or paper-based reading?
Our students are growing up in a world of TikTok, Instagram reels, and YouTube shorts.
They’re used to rapid-fire visual content that’s over in seconds.
But then we ask them to read George Orwell or Shakespeare for GCSE, or tackle dense comprehension passages in their SATs.
The gap is significant.
The Essential Skills of Reading
Reading well requires specific skills:
- Stamina to focus on a single text for extended periods
- The ability to detect subtle nuance and implied meaning
- Analysis of how writers use language for effect
- Building a mental picture of plot, character, and theme over time
- Holding complex ideas in mind while continuing to read
These skills don’t develop from scrolling.
The Research is Compelling
What the Science Shows
A meta-analysis of 49 studies found that students who read on paper consistently scored higher on comprehension tests than those reading the same material on screens.
Why does this happen?
Physical books provide spatial memory—you remember where information appeared on the page.
The tactile experience of turning pages helps with retention.
Screen readers tend to skim rather than engage deeply.
And crucially, reading on paper helps knowledge transfer from short-term to long-term memory more effectively.
Books aren’t just nostalgic. They’re evidence-based tools for learning.
The Role of Technology
Yes, technology has benefits for students who struggle with traditional texts.
Text-to-speech can support dyslexic readers.
Digital tools can provide immediate vocabulary help.
But for building genuine reading skills, physical books remain our best resource.
Where One-to-One Tutoring Makes the Difference
It’s About Emotion
And for many children, it’s not just about skills.
It’s about emotion.
Imagine stumbling over a word in front of your classmates.
The hot flush of embarrassment when you lose your place.
The quiet shame of not understanding what everyone else seems to get.
These feelings can make children avoid reading altogether.
This is where one-to-one tutoring makes a real difference.
In a private session, there’s no audience.
No embarrassment.
No pressure to keep up with faster readers.
Children can take their time, ask questions, and build confidence alongside skills.
A tutor addresses both the technical challenges and the emotional barriers that hold readers back.
In any quality tutoring session, you should see prioritised, regular, sustained reading from paper texts.
At Home: What You Can Do
- Set aside daily screen-free reading time
- Keep physical books visible and accessible
- Read alongside your child when possible
- Discuss what they’re reading to build analytical skills
Our students need to develop both digital literacy and traditional reading stamina. We need to work together to give them both.
Written by Kae Ormerod, Company Founder
Qualified Teacher and SENCO Dyslexia Award
