Boris Johnson and Nick Clegg today joined forces to demand that parents in London devote more time to reading with their children after a study by educational toy company Leapfrog found that just 39% of Londoners regularly read to their children, compared to 44% nationally.
The Mayor of London said: "It's a modern tragedy that in a culturally rich economic powerhouse like London, a city historically grounded in literature, a child can leave school unable to read.
"Illiteracy severely limits life choices, closing doors on further education and career aspirations, and it also impacts on the capital's economy, starving business of the skilled workforce it needs.
"My message to Londoners is that it's never too early to talk to your child. The earlier you start, the greater the positive impact it can have."
Nick Clegg, Deputy Prime Minister added: "I like nothing more than being able to read to my kids at bedtime. It doesn't have to be for a long time - 10 minutes can make all the difference."
"Reading is one of life's great pleasures but also one of life's key skills. If you can't read confidently, it can make everyday tasks much more difficult.
"Improving the literacy of London's children will improve their prospects and happiness in later life."
iMama contributor Emma says she started reading to her children when they were around six months old and adds that reading is a vital part of the family's bedtime routine.
For more info on reading to your children, check out our dedicated channel Reading with your baby.
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