Reading habits of children with and without learning disabilities and parents’ participation in this process according to the children’s perception

Abstract

Introduction: Reading plays an important role in the literacy process, and, consequently, for the good cognitive, academic and social performance of the individual. Aim:To investigate if the learning problem is a factor which influences the reading habits of the child and also the parents participation in the development of reading habits of their children, according to the children’s perception. Material and Method: Participants were 100 students aged 9 to 12 years, of both genres, from 4th to 6th grade of elementary school. The sample was subdivided into two groups: with and without learning problems (50 children in each group). The participants individually responded to a questionnaire addressing the reading habits of each child as well as parental involvement in developing this habit. Results and Conclusion: The attitudes and reading habits of individuals with learning problems allow us to state that these children have less appreciation and involvement in reading activities, and also the parents of children in both groups demonstrated little participation in developing the reading habit of their children.