Readly collaborates with Disney

Cultivating the next generation of storytellers

Synonymous with magic, make-believe and a devotion to storytelling, Disney as a brand is indispensable to millions. It’s the company’s ability to constantly innovate and push the boundaries of both storytelling and business that has led to it being one of the most successful media powerhouses in the world.

I have nostalgic memories of watching Disney films with my brothers growing up, and now I see the enjoyment my nieces and nephew get out of the brand. It’s through the same characters that we are able to connect and communicate, no matter our age, upbringing or heritage. As its portfolio of media products expands, Disney today has a tale that we can all relate to. By marrying Disney’s quality storytelling with Readly’s uninterrupted reading experience, our aim is to encourage a lifelong love of reading in the next generation.?

Reading habits within younger generations??

According to key research from the National Literacy Trust, just 3 in 10 children and young people said that they read something daily in their free time during 2021. One disheartening stat reports that the most popular reading carried out by children and young people in their spare time is via text/direct messages (92.4%) followed by in-game communications (87.4%).?

More positively, it was also reported that:??

• 1 in 2 read fiction on paper in their free time?
• Nearly 3 in 10 also read fiction on screen?
• 1 in 2 children said that they enjoyed reading?
• 2 in 5 agreed that reading made them feel better

Through our collaboration with Disney, we’re on a mission to boost these stats by providing easy and unlimited access into the worlds of the most well-known characters in family entertainment.

Why reading matters

There is a wealth of scientific evidence advocating the many benefits of reading. In short, it has been proven to be essential for a child’s development. One such benefit is its ability to strengthen relationships with others. An interesting study found that when a parent reads to a child in what becomes a shared experience that requires joint attention, both participants experience ‘neural synchrony.’ This is when brain activity mirrors itself in those of both participants. Incredibly, with this comes a higher level of engagement and also a significant release of the mood-boosting chemical oxytocin.

Reading at a young age has also been proven to cultivate creativity and imagination, develop key skills such as empathy, understanding and communication, and expand horizons and perceptions of the world. With equality, diversity and inclusion more important than ever, the power of reading is an essential tool for change.?

Cultivating the next generation of storytellers

Unfortunately, the position of reading for entertainment and relaxation is challenged by hectic family lives, lack of time and the perception that reading to a child is a chore. It often takes a backseat to screen time. On top of this, there is too much emphasis placed on reading as a skill and not for entertainment. Too much pressure is placed on both child and parent to make reading sessions solely educational. We want to reverse these notions by providing an unlimited and uninterrupted reading experience, with a treasure trove of content they can choose from.

After all, magazines and comics are a brilliant way to engage reluctant readers. The dynamic experience they provide can help children who struggle with their reading through relatable characters and interactive storytelling. With reading proven to be an immensely powerful tool for good, we are making it an enjoyable and accessible activity for children of all ages.?