We are currently celebrating Reading Week. This year’s theme is “Encounters.” Through reading experiences, worlds collide, we learn new things, and understanding, solidarity, and empathy grow.

In these times, it is really important to highlight the significance of literacy and the joy of reading.

Reading has always been a part of my life since childhood. As a child, my parents ensured that we had story time, which always included my favorite, Pippi Longstocking, whenever possible. I was diagnosed with reading difficulties in elementary school, which is why I was strongly encouraged to read. As an adult, I understand that this encouragement was invaluable. I fell in love with the world of books, and visiting the library became almost a weekly routine. I read everywhere, whenever possible. Sometimes even under the blanket with a flashlight when the lights had to be turned off. During summers at the cottage, rainy days became my favorites, as I could read in peace while the rain pattered outside. At the cottage, I picked up old copies of the Famous Five, Nancy Drew, and Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women, which had long been a favorite.

During my teenage years, I mostly read detective novels, from Agatha Christie to Patricia Cornwell. My grandfather’s old detective novels were particularly interesting because incorrect clues were highlighted in red, while the correct ones were marked in blue.

While studying law, literature provided a good balance to my other reading. After my children were born, I dived back into the world of fairy tales and stories.

Research shows that reading is important and has several positive connections to brain function. Reading improves working memory and concentration, reduces stress levels, and enriches vocabulary.

Literacy is also a prerequisite for learning and a key civic skill. Research indicates that literacy development can also be promoted at home. Therefore, reading to children is something we parents should prioritize. Reading to a child supports not only speech and language development but also imagination and emotional processing, as well as future academic success.

I received a lot of support for the reading difficulties diagnosed in childhood. One of the methods emphasized for me was to read aloud and to read a lot on my own. I was fortunate to receive support both at home and at school, and my reading difficulties did not become an obstacle to enjoying reading or pursuing dreams, such as studying law.

Therefore, when discussing reading, I want to highlight the different types of learners and emphasize how significant and impactful early detection and support are in these cases.

Reading Week is an annual nationwide theme week focusing on literacy, providing information and content on current issues related to literacy and reading.