Should Kids be reading Ebooks or paperback

Kaitlyn_Phillips · Post by **Kaitlyn_Phillips** » 21 Feb 2016, 00:13

I actually wrote a paper about this for one of my college classes. It was a research, rhetorical paper wherein I argued that print books are better for children than e-readers, in terms of their development. Kids are textile learners, and they can be more engaged with the story if they can feel it and turn the pages. Also, they have so much screen time already with computers, TVs, iPads and even phones for some kids; shouldn't books be the exception? I think their brains need a break from all the electronics. Printed books will always win, in my opinion.

v_a_redwood · Post by **v_a_redwood** » 22 Feb 2016, 19:28

There's something about holding a tangible book that will probably last in our memories longer as time passes. However, times are changing, and what we remembered as a child may be somewhat irrelevant as technology becomes the main instrument for life. Holding books are nostalgic for us. But so long as kids learn to love the written words, it shouldn't matter which forum they are reading from, just that they do.

Sheena11 · Post by **Sheena11** » 24 Feb 2016, 02:22

I have often wondered this myself. It took me years to transition over to ebooks. Now it is how I read the majority of my books. However, I have always felt some reservation about having my kids start their reading on ebooks. Its nice to see other moms thoughts on this topic! Thanks for all the input!

tab2gocrazy · Post by **tab2gocrazy** » 24 Feb 2016, 11:34

Children need to be taught the benefit of using both actual books and e-books. There is nothing like bedtime with a real storybook.

NichelaMona · Post by **NichelaMona** » 24 Feb 2016, 15:42

I think part of it is the age the children are growing up in. I believe it is omay for them to read either. I have an ereader, but I also love the feeling of having a book in my hands. Show them both.

Jme1223 · Post by **Jme1223** » 24 Feb 2016, 15:57

In full disclosure, I do not have children. Just two rambunctious nieces under the age of 3.
As a child, I fell in love with reading at an early age. It's an all sensory experience- reading the words on paper, the feel of the pages, even the smell of the book. I wouldn't want to deny that feeling to any child in this technology driven age.
That being said, an e-reader is a wonderful experience when traveling and can be more convenient to keep young children engaged at certain times. I think in moderation ebooks have their place. And I would much rather see my niece reading a book on her tablet than playing a game or watching toy reviews on YouTube (which she can do for hours btw).

karigirl84 · Post by **karigirl84** » 25 Feb 2016, 17:09

With all the electronics out there today I think it's good for my son to unwind with a real book. It's something we both enjoy at the end of the day. I felt that with a screen we just didn't get that same feeling as we do with a book, luckily he enjoys reading almost as much as I do.

Paliden · Post by **Paliden** » 25 Feb 2016, 23:50

I limit my kids time with their devices. I have read too many studies that show how we retain more when we are reading a paper book instead of on a screen, and how it isn't good for your eyes or your concentration, etc. Anyway, I much prefer that my kids read the actual paperback. The only time they read an ebook is when it is a free book.

tortoise keeper · Post by **tortoise keeper** » 11 Mar 2016, 12:21

I think younger children should read real books, but as kids get older I have no problem with them reading electronically. I know many school use some electronic materials. My son is 14 and I am thrilled when he will read anything regardless of whether it's a paperback or on a tablet.

CrescentMoon · Post by **CrescentMoon** » 22 Mar 2016, 08:15

I agree with most of what's already been said. I definitely think starting out with physical books first is a great way to go. The thing I like about e-readers is that it is so convenient. However, staring at the screen too much is a bad idea. I think it's better to read physical books when possible.

Bookqueen · Post by **Bookqueen** » 22 Mar 2016, 12:34

Depending on the age I believer paperbacks are better. My 8 year old reads on my kindle. He gets paperbacks from school to read also. I read paperbacks to my younger children. Personally I would rather have a paperback. There is something about turning a page that just makes me happy. I read a lot on my tablet because it is much easier also.

ronrogers · Post by **ronrogers** » 04 Apr 2016, 00:30

Young children react to colour and pictures. It forms part of the reading tools of association and helps their imaginations to be stimulated. A paper book full of illustrations creates an interactive forum and one that children can share with their peers and parents.

Vermont Reviews · Post by **Vermont Reviews** » 13 Apr 2016, 10:37

As a grandparent I believe it does not really matter as long as we get our kids to read. Whatever works is ok.

shelley_soetosenojo · Post by **shelley_soetosenojo** » 13 Apr 2016, 12:03

I have no preference as long as they read.

Heidi M Simone · Post by **Heidi M Simone** » 13 Apr 2016, 15:50

ronrogers wrote:Young children react to colour and pictures. It forms part of the reading tools of association and helps their imaginations to be stimulated. A paper book full of illustrations creates an interactive forum and one that children can share with their peers and parents.

I like this response. For the young ones the colorful pictures are more interactive than the black-and-white kindle. It definitely is easier to share with a physical picture book than a small kindle. I think once they get older, a kindle present would be fine as long as they are still comfortable reading physical books for school and such. I also envision my future kids loving to visit the library and borrowing books.