Globally, just one-third of 10-year-olds can read and understand basic written stories, with two-thirds below minimum proficiency. Since its inception in 2010, Worldreader has embarked on a mission to encourage children to read, supporting over 22 million readers across more than 100 countries. Using its signature digital platform, BookSmart, Worldreader enhances reading, social-emotional and digital literacy skills through culturally and linguistically relevant digital books and engaging activities.
In 2021, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent school closures, the organization shifted from school-based programs to directly supporting reading in the home using mobile technology. This article highlights emerging findings and implications of Raising Readers, a two-year study — conducted by ODI in partnership with Worldreader, and supported by the EdTech Hub. This study aimed at exploring questions about the optimal ways to work with parents and caregivers when introducing a digital reading platform and what best supports children’s reading.