We live in a world full of screens. Kids do homework on tablets. Grown-ups read news on phones. Many of us no longer touch a real book. But here’s the thing: is this new way of reading changing how we understand what we read? That’s a big question. And it’s one parents, teachers, and students should be asking.
Readers comprehend 20–30% less when reading on screens compared to print
This stat is one of the most important. It tells us something big: when you read on a screen, you might understand a lot less than if you read the same thing on paper. We’re not talking about a tiny difference either. It’s a 20–30% drop in how much your brain takes in. That’s a big deal, especially for students who need to learn and remember what they read.
Let’s imagine this. If a child reads a story or science chapter on a tablet, and then reads the same one in a printed book, the paper version will likely help them understand much more. That means they will remember the story better, explain it better, and even answer questions more clearly.
Why does this happen?
One reason is how our brains work when we touch real things. Holding a book, flipping the pages, even feeling the weight of it — all these actions help our brain stay focused and build a kind of mental map. We remember where things were in the book — like, “I saw that word on the top left page.” That kind of memory helps with understanding and recalling what we read.
But on a screen, that doesn’t happen the same way. Screens scroll. They flicker. They don’t give us that deep connection. So, our brains don’t build strong memories the same way.
Also, screens often come with distractions — messages popping up, brightness hurting your eyes, or the temptation to tap away to something else. All of these hurt comprehension.
So what can we do?
First, whenever possible, choose print for deep reading. If your child is learning a new subject, preparing for a test, or reading something long, give them a real book or print out the material.
If you must use a screen, turn off notifications, make sure it’s quiet, and use full-screen mode. This helps keep distractions out of the way.
You can also encourage slower reading. On screens, people tend to skim. But when you remind yourself or your child to slow down, take notes, and pause to think, it helps a lot.
Finally, combine both. Let your child first read on the screen if they like it. Then print out a summary or ask them to explain it to you. Talking about what they read helps strengthen memory, no matter the format.
Understanding this stat can be life-changing for students. When you know that comprehension drops on screens, you can start making smarter choices that help you and your child learn better every day.
85% of students say they concentrate better when reading printed text
This is not just a number. It’s a clear message from students themselves. When asked, 85 out of every 100 students say they do better when reading print. That’s a loud and clear vote for paper.
Why do they say this?
When students read on paper, their mind tends to stay in one place. The page doesn’t change unless they turn it. It’s still. It’s focused. There are no links, buttons, or ads. That calm space helps the brain stay on track.
On a screen, things can get messy. Many apps are made to grab your attention — not to help you focus. Even in a simple PDF, it’s easy to scroll too fast or skip ahead. Eyes get tired. Minds wander. And before you know it, you’ve read three pages and remember nothing.
Students feel this. That’s why most of them say they concentrate better with print.
Now, what can we do with this info?
First, listen to your kids. If they say reading on paper feels better, trust that. Give them real books whenever you can. Even printing out digital assignments can help.
Second, create a “reading zone.” Whether it’s paper or screen, make a space with no noise, no phones, and no movement around. The brain needs a signal: “It’s time to read.” A calm space gives that signal.
Third, encourage active reading. In print, students can underline, write notes in the margin, or stick sticky notes. This helps the brain stay awake and involved. You can do some of these on screens too, but it takes more effort and isn’t as natural.
Another tip: ask students to reflect after reading. A simple, “What was that about?” or “Can you tell me one thing you learned?” helps them stay alert while reading and shows if they were truly focused.
So the next time your child asks for a book instead of a tablet, go with it. Their brain is telling them something important.
Comprehension scores are significantly lower for digital texts in 66% of studies reviewed globally
Across the world, researchers have been studying how people read. In 66% of all these studies, they found something in common — people understand less when reading on screens. This isn’t just one study. It’s the majority of global research coming to the same result.
That’s powerful. It means this is not just about personal preference. It’s about how the brain works with different types of reading.
Digital reading often causes the brain to work harder. Instead of just reading, your mind has to block out screen light, scrolling movement, or even the need to zoom in and out. These little things may not seem like much, but they add up. They make your brain tired faster and reduce how much you actually take in.
In print, your brain can relax a bit. It focuses only on the words, the flow of sentences, and the meaning. No swiping. No alerts. No battery life to think about. Just reading. That’s why print often wins when it comes to true understanding.
So what does this mean for your family?
Use digital devices for short, light reading — like news, simple stories, or quick updates. But for deep learning, printed materials should still be your go-to. If your child is preparing for school exams or studying a tricky topic, try using print. Even if the original material is online, just printing out a few pages can make a big difference.
You can also try “dual reading.” Start on the screen, then switch to print for review or for key points. This helps reinforce what was read and brings the best of both worlds together.
At Debsie, we know that tools matter. That’s why we combine both digital and printable formats in our learning experiences. We want children to get the benefits of tech without losing the deep focus that only print can bring.
The science is clear: in most cases, print helps you understand better. So don’t ignore what the research is shouting loud and clear. Make print a core part of your child’s learning life.
People read 25% slower on screens than on paper
Reading is not just about getting through words. It’s about feeling the words, connecting the ideas, and truly understanding what’s being said. But here’s the issue: on screens, people tend to read 25% slower than they do on paper.
That’s a big slowdown. If it usually takes your child 20 minutes to read a story on paper, it might take them 25 minutes or more on a screen — and they still might understand less.
Why is that?
Screens often make reading feel different. Some people scroll too fast. Others get distracted and pause often. Some readers squint or adjust their position to avoid screen glare. All these things break the flow of reading.
Reading on paper feels more natural. Your eyes move from one word to the next, your hands flip the page, and your body stays still. You fall into a rhythm. That rhythm helps your brain stay focused, and helps the story or information sink in.
This stat also means something else. If reading is slower on screens, then it’s not a time-saver. Many people turn to tablets thinking it’s faster. But in truth, your child might end up taking more time and remembering less.
So what can we do?
If your child struggles to finish reading homework on a screen, try switching to paper. You may find that they get it done faster — and with fewer complaints.
You can also encourage timed reading sessions. For example, set a 15-minute timer and let your child read without any breaks or scrolling. After that, talk about what they read. This builds speed and focus over time.
Also, make reading feel special. Light a small lamp, offer a comfy blanket, and give them a paper book. Make it a cozy moment, not a chore. When reading feels good, speed and comprehension often go up naturally.
Sometimes slower is better. But not when it’s caused by distractions and screen fatigue. Reading should feel smooth, clear, and calm — and that’s often what paper provides best.
92% of college students prefer print when reading for academic purposes
This stat is loud and clear. Ninety-two percent of college students say they would rather read print when it comes to studying. That’s nearly every student in the room. It shows a strong, global preference — not just a small trend.
So why is this happening, especially when these students are some of the most tech-savvy people around?
The answer is simple. When something is hard or important — like preparing for exams, writing essays, or trying to truly understand a complex topic — students trust paper. They feel more in control. They can underline, highlight, flip pages back and forth quickly, and mark important sections with sticky notes. All these little habits make learning easier and deeper.
Also, reading on paper removes many of the temptations that come with screens. No tabs, no messages, no quick search to distract you. Just you and the text.
Some students have said they “get lost” in digital PDFs. It’s harder to know where they are in the chapter. They scroll and scroll, and it feels like there’s no clear beginning or end. But with a book, they know if they’re halfway or near the end. This kind of spatial awareness helps with understanding and memory.
So what can we take from this?
Even in a world full of devices, real books still matter — especially for academic success. If college students, who grew up with phones and tablets, still trust print when it counts most, maybe younger students should too.
For your child, build the habit early. Help them use print for school reading, reports, and big learning tasks. If they have digital school materials, try printing them out when possible.
Also, ask your child how they feel. Often, they know what works best for them. Give them the chance to tell you if reading a real book feels easier. Sometimes, just asking that question can open up a better learning experience.
At Debsie, we focus on giving kids materials that match how their brain learns best. And sometimes, that means going back to basics — giving them space to read, think, and grow, without the buzz of a screen.
Skimming behavior is more common on screens than in print
When people read on screens, they don’t always read. Many skim. They jump from word to word, scan headlines, and look for bold text or bullet points. This is great for quick info, but bad for deep understanding.
This behavior happens because screens are designed for speed. Social media posts, news apps, even emails — they train our brains to scroll fast and not sit with ideas. We get used to grabbing the main point and moving on. But learning doesn’t work that way.
In contrast, when reading a printed book, most people naturally slow down. They read full sentences. They follow the flow of the page. That’s when real learning happens — when your brain is fully present.
Skimming also causes readers to miss details. Important points get skipped. And sometimes, a student might think they read something when they only glanced at it. That creates gaps in memory and understanding.
So, what can you do to stop skimming?
One way is to set a reading goal. Say, “Today, we’ll read three pages carefully.” It’s not about speed — it’s about depth. Encourage your child to pause, ask questions, and even say things out loud. Reading with intention helps build focus.
Another trick is to do “pause and recall.” After each paragraph or section, stop and ask, “What did you just read?” This makes the brain slow down and process the information better.
You can also use your finger or a pencil as a guide while reading. Even on screens, this physical movement helps anchor the eyes and prevent skipping ahead.
If your child uses an e-reader or tablet, try settings that reduce distractions — like turning off animations, using grayscale, or choosing plain reading apps with no links or pop-ups.
And lastly, bring back print for reading that really matters. If you want your child to truly understand a new topic or dive into a story, put a book in their hands and watch their brain slow down — in a good way.
Skimming might feel fast, but learning needs time. And print helps make that time count.
Digital reading increases cognitive load, reducing working memory for comprehension
Here’s where things get scientific — but we’ll keep it simple.
When we read, our brain has to do two things at once. First, it takes in the words. Second, it makes sense of them. That second part is called comprehension. But our brain can only hold so much at once. This “mental space” is called working memory.
When you read on screens, that mental space gets filled up faster. Why? Because screens add extra tasks. Your brain has to block out screen glare, ignore pop-ups, adjust to scrolling, and sometimes remember what was just said on the last page because you can’t flip back easily. All of this adds what experts call cognitive load.
When cognitive load is high, there’s less room left for deep understanding.
On paper, your brain has fewer things to worry about. You just read. So, your working memory can focus fully on meaning, structure, and memory-building.
Now, what can we do about this?
One way to reduce cognitive load on screens is to remove distractions. Turn off all notifications. Use apps with simple, distraction-free designs. Read in full-screen mode. Choose a calm, quiet space with good lighting.
Teach your child to take notes as they read. Even writing down one sentence per page can help clear the mental clutter. It moves thoughts out of working memory and onto the paper, where they won’t be lost.
You can also break reading into smaller chunks. Let your child read one short section, take a break, and then continue. This keeps their brain from getting overloaded.
If your child shows signs of screen fatigue — rubbing eyes, getting fidgety, or zoning out — it’s time to switch to print. Give their brain a break.
At Debsie, we carefully design digital materials to be light, clean, and focused. But we also believe print has a powerful role in learning — especially when it comes to comprehension. Reducing mental overload means better learning, better memory, and a calmer, happier student.
Readers retain less information from e-books than from physical books
Let’s talk about memory. When you read something important, you want it to stick. But studies show that people who read e-books remember less than those who read the same thing in a physical book.
It’s not about how smart you are. It’s about how the brain handles information. With printed books, people tend to remember not just the story or facts — but where in the book they saw them. Maybe it was on the left page, near the bottom, or at the start of a chapter. That spatial memory helps with recall.
E-books don’t offer the same cues. All the pages look the same. There’s no thickness to track how far you’ve read. No page-flipping muscle memory. So, while you may read the same content, your brain stores it differently — and often, not as deeply.
Also, reading on a screen tends to be more passive. Readers swipe or scroll instead of turning pages, and that physical act of page-turning actually helps the brain engage.
So how can you help your child remember more?
First, try using printed books for important reading. This is especially true for studying, school reports, or anything that needs to be remembered over time.
Second, add memory boosters. Ask your child to talk about what they read. Have them draw a small picture or write a few sentences. These extra steps help lock in the memory.
Even with e-books, you can improve retention by slowing down and using built-in tools like highlighting, adding notes, or writing summaries after reading. The more active the reading, the stronger the memory.
Also, take breaks while reading. Cramming a full chapter in one go can overload the brain. Short sessions, followed by review, work much better.
When it comes to remembering what you read, print still has the upper hand. It gives the brain anchors — and anchors help memory stay in place.
Children aged 6–8 understand stories better when read from paper than tablets
At ages 6 to 8, kids are learning how to read — and also learning how to love reading. It’s a key age for building strong brain habits. And research shows something very clear: kids in this age group understand stories much better when they read from paper instead of on a tablet.
Why is this so important?
At this stage, kids are not just reading for fun. They’re building their reading muscles. They’re learning to follow a storyline, remember details, and connect emotions to characters. All of this helps them build comprehension — which is the foundation for doing well in all school subjects later.
When kids read on tablets, a few things get in the way. First, many tablets have sound, animation, or interactive buttons. While these features may seem fun, they often distract from the story itself. Instead of following the story, the child may focus on tapping or listening to sound effects. That breaks their concentration and makes it harder to follow what’s going on.
On paper, there are no distractions. Just the words, the pictures, and their imagination. This helps children truly absorb the story and think about it deeply. They follow the characters more closely. They notice feelings and actions. And they build empathy, memory, and storytelling skills.
So what can you do with this knowledge?
If you have young children between 6 and 8, make print books a big part of their daily life. Choose stories with colorful pictures and rich characters. Make reading time feel like a special moment — quiet, cozy, and screen-free.
Let them hold the book, turn the pages, and even go back to parts they liked. You can also ask gentle questions as you read: “What do you think will happen next?” or “Why do you think she’s feeling sad?” These simple questions help them engage and understand more.
Another good habit is asking them to retell the story in their own words afterward. If they remember the beginning, middle, and end — that’s a great sign their comprehension is growing.
If they’re used to screens, don’t worry. You can still include digital reading, but keep it short and simple. Let printed books be the main way they dive into stories. Their growing brains will thank you.
At Debsie, we love using stories to help children grow smarter and more thoughtful. And we always look for ways to keep the learning deep, focused, and joyful — especially for young readers.
On-screen reading leads to more multitasking, reducing comprehension by 35%
Multitasking sounds like a great skill, right? But when it comes to reading, multitasking is actually the enemy of learning. This stat shows just how serious it is: when kids or adults read on screens and multitask, comprehension can drop by up to 35%.
That’s a huge drop. Imagine your child understanding only 65% of what they read just because a screen led them to do too many things at once.
Screens often make it easy to jump around. A child might start reading an article, then click a link, then watch a video, then check a message. Each of these actions interrupts the brain’s focus. It takes time for the brain to return to full attention — and sometimes it never gets back on track.
Even adults do this. How often do we read with a few tabs open? Or check our phones while trying to finish a report? That kind of divided attention slows down the brain and weakens memory.
In print, this rarely happens. A book doesn’t buzz. It doesn’t have pop-ups or links. There’s just one thing to do: read. And that deep focus leads to stronger understanding and better retention.
So how do you stop multitasking and start reading better?
First, create a quiet reading space. Put the phone away. Close other apps. If your child is reading on a screen, turn off all alerts. Use airplane mode if you need to.
Second, make it a rule: one thing at a time. Say it out loud before reading begins. This helps train the brain to stay present.
Third, read in short blocks of time. Try 20 minutes of focused reading, followed by a break. This builds stamina and avoids burnout.
You can also ask your child to tell you what they learned after each reading session. If they struggle to remember or explain, it might be a sign that multitasking got in the way.
Multitasking feels like you’re doing more, but with reading, it leads to understanding less. Keep it simple. One page, one brain, one task — that’s the way to grow comprehension.
Students using print score 15–20% higher on reading tests than those using screens
Let’s talk about results. In schools, tests are a big part of learning. And when students read on paper instead of screens, their scores on reading tests can be 15 to 20% higher. That’s a huge jump — it can mean the difference between passing and failing, or going from average to top of the class.
Why does this happen?
We’ve already looked at many reasons. Paper helps kids focus more. It lowers distractions. It gives their brain more space to understand. And it helps build stronger memory of what they’ve read.
But this stat shows that it’s not just about feelings — it’s about performance. When it’s time to prove what they know, kids who read on paper tend to do better.
Even small differences in focus can grow into big differences on a test. Missing one key sentence, misunderstanding one idea — those can lead to wrong answers. But when a student reads deeply and with full attention, they’re more likely to understand questions and find the right answers.
So, what can parents and teachers do with this knowledge?
Use print for test prep. If your child has a big exam coming up, print out the reading materials. Let them mark them up, write in the margins, or use sticky notes to track ideas.
Also, make it a habit. Even if school uses screens, balance that out at home with real books and printed materials. Over time, this builds stronger reading skills that show up on tests.
You can also do mini practice sessions. Choose a reading passage, ask questions afterward, and let your child answer on paper. This gives them a taste of test-like thinking — but in a low-stress way.
Print reading builds test-ready brains. And the best part? It also builds confidence. When kids see their scores improve, they start to believe in their ability to understand and succeed. That’s a powerful mindset shift.
Eye fatigue is reported by 70% of digital readers after long reading sessions
Reading should feel good. But for many kids and adults, reading on a screen for too long causes eye fatigue. In fact, 70% of digital readers say their eyes feel tired, dry, or strained after a long session.
That’s a big problem — especially if your child is doing most of their schoolwork on a screen. When eyes are tired, it’s harder to concentrate. Focus drifts. Headaches can start. And the joy of reading disappears.
Eye fatigue comes from many things: screen glare, small fonts, blue light, and constant movement. Our eyes are not built to stare at screens for hours. They need breaks, changes in distance, and natural light.
In contrast, reading on paper is gentle. The light is natural. The page doesn’t glow. And there’s no backlight flickering to strain the eyes. That’s why reading a book under a lamp can feel calm, while reading a tablet in the same spot might feel tiring.
So what can you do?
Follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This relaxes the eyes and gives them a break.
Adjust screen settings. Use larger fonts, reduce brightness, and turn on “night mode” or blue light filters. These changes can make a big difference.
Also, limit back-to-back screen sessions. If your child reads on a screen for school, let them take a break before using a screen again for fun.
Encourage regular print reading. Not just for learning, but for joy. Let your child pick a book they love, and read it in a cozy, screen-free spot.
At Debsie, we think about these things. That’s why we include printable versions of materials and recommend plenty of off-screen time. Learning should feel good, not painful. And healthy eyes make for a sharper, happier mind.
Print readers are twice as likely to recall the sequence of events in a story
When someone reads a story, understanding what happens — and in what order — is key. This is called narrative sequencing. And print readers are twice as likely to get this right compared to those who read the same story on a screen.
That means if two kids read the same book, one on paper and one on a tablet, the one with the paper book is far more likely to remember what happened first, what came next, and how the story ended. That’s not just a fun skill — it’s vital for learning, writing, and critical thinking.
Why does this happen?
The brain organizes events better when it can connect ideas to space and structure. With a printed book, the reader remembers what was said on “that left-hand page near the top,” or they recall flipping back to re-read something. These physical and visual clues help lock the story in place.
On a screen, those clues disappear. Scrolling and swiping break the sense of location. The format often looks the same on every page. There’s no weight shifting as you read further, and no visible beginning, middle, or end. That makes it harder for the brain to build a mental map of the story.
And stories are built on structure. Whether it’s a fairy tale or a science report, the order of events is everything. Kids who struggle to recall this sequence often miss the point — or misunderstand key lessons in the story.
So what can you do?
Encourage your child to read printed stories — especially if they’re just learning how to read or write. Then, after each story, ask them to tell you what happened in their own words. You can say, “What happened first? Then what? And how did it end?”
You can also make a fun game of drawing the story out. Let them draw three boxes: beginning, middle, end. They can sketch or write what happened. This not only builds sequencing skills — it makes the story stick in their memory.
If your child has to read on a screen, support them by helping create structure. Let them take notes or use color codes for different parts of the story. Even small actions like this can bring order to the chaos of scrolling.
Being able to remember and tell a story in the right order isn’t just for reading class. It builds communication, logic, and writing skills too. And paper gives kids a big head start in building those life-long strengths.
Screens promote scanning, which weakens deep reading skills
There’s a big difference between scanning and deep reading.
Scanning is what we do when we look quickly over a page or screen to find something — a name, a bold word, or a date. It’s fast. It’s useful for skimming news or finding a recipe. But it’s not good for understanding or remembering complex ideas.
And screens make us scan — a lot.
This stat tells us that screens actually promote scanning behavior, which can weaken deep reading over time. That means the more your child reads on a screen, the more their brain gets used to jumping over words instead of sinking into them.
Deep reading is what we do when we read slowly, thoughtfully, and with full focus. It’s how we absorb meaning, spot hidden messages, and grow critical thinking. It’s what school — and life — really needs.
When scanning becomes a habit, it can harm the brain’s ability to focus. Kids might read an entire page and still not know what it was about. Or they might struggle to explain why something happened in the story or what a character was feeling.
So what can parents and teachers do?
Encourage “slow reading.” Pick a short story or chapter and read it together at a gentle pace. Stop to ask questions like, “What do you think that word means?” or “Why did the character do that?” These questions train the brain to go deeper.
Use print for challenging or emotional stories. Let your child pause, look back, and even talk aloud about what they’re reading. When the brain slows down, comprehension grows.
If you’re using digital texts, avoid distractions like links or buttons. Use plain reading modes, and encourage your child to highlight or take notes to stay involved.
You can also read aloud together. Hearing the words out loud slows the pace and helps with meaning. Your child hears tone, pauses, and rhythm — all things that build deeper understanding.
Scanning has its place. But for real growth — in reading, school, and life — we want kids to dig deep. And that starts by slowing down and choosing the right tools for the job.
Students reading digitally have 40% lower recall after one week
This is a long-term issue — and one many parents don’t think about right away. A child might read something on a screen and seem to understand it. But then, a week later, they remember far less. In fact, research shows that students reading digitally can have 40% lower recall after just one week.
That’s nearly half the information gone.
Why does this happen?
As we’ve seen, digital reading often leads to skimming, distractions, and reduced focus. That weakens the brain’s ability to move information from short-term memory to long-term memory. It’s like putting water in a leaky bucket — it just doesn’t stay.
Printed reading, on the other hand, gives the brain more help. The act of turning pages, seeing layout and pictures, holding the book — all of this builds memory anchors. These anchors help the brain return to the material days or weeks later.
Now imagine what this means for learning. If your child is reading science chapters or history notes on a tablet — and forgetting 40% within a week — that’s a huge learning gap. No wonder test scores can suffer, even when kids feel like they “read everything.”
So how can we fix it?
First, make paper your friend — especially for subjects that will be tested later. If your child reads on a screen, follow it up with a print-based review. Even just writing out key points can help lock the ideas into long-term memory.
Second, add a “recap day.” A few days after reading something, go back and review it. Ask your child, “What do you remember about that chapter?” Let them explain it in their own words. If there are gaps, go back and reread that part — ideally on paper.
Third, use visuals. Let your child draw a quick picture or create a simple chart after reading. The more senses involved, the deeper the memory.
Finally, slow down the reading pace. Make sure they understand before moving on. Give them space to reflect, ask questions, or just think.
Remember: what sticks is what matters. And for most kids, reading on paper helps more of that information stay in their minds — not just today, but long after.
90% of parents believe their children learn better from books than screens
This is a powerful one — because it comes straight from the people who know kids best: their parents.
In surveys around the world, 90% of parents say they believe their children learn better from books than from screens. That’s nearly every parent. And it speaks volumes about what we see and feel in our homes.
Parents notice that when kids read a book, they’re calmer. They stay with the story longer. They ask more questions. They even talk differently afterward — using new words, remembering details, or drawing what they read. These are signs of deep, rich learning.
But when kids read on a tablet or computer, parents often notice something else: fidgeting, distraction, shorter attention, and forgetting the material too soon.
Parents are not researchers — but they are experts in their child’s habits and moods. And their insight matters.
So what should we do with this?
Start by trusting that instinct. If your child does better with paper, lean into that. Get books from the library, print out reading materials from school, or invest in storybooks they love.
Create a home reading routine that includes print. Even if school is using screens, balance it out with nightly book time. Make it cozy and quiet. Let reading be a joy — not a task.
Also, talk to teachers. Share what you’ve seen. Many schools now offer both digital and printed versions of texts, and teachers can often provide guidance on how best to use each.
At Debsie, we listen closely to parents because we believe families are the best learning partners. That’s why we create materials and programs that work in real homes — with real kids and real results.
Parents know when something works. And if 90% believe books help their children learn better — that’s a message we all should listen to.
Physical books enhance tactile engagement, aiding comprehension by up to 25%
This one’s all about touch — and how our hands can help our brains.
Research shows that reading physical books can improve comprehension by up to 25%, and one major reason is tactile engagement. That means using your hands to turn pages, feel the texture, and hold the book itself actually helps your brain understand more.
Sounds strange? Not really. Think about it this way: when you’re reading a real book, you’re doing more than just looking at words. You’re flipping, pausing, holding, and even sometimes smelling the pages. These sensory actions help create a deeper connection to the material.
The human brain is wired to learn through multiple senses. That’s why young children touch everything — it’s how they understand the world. And even as we get older, that connection between movement and memory remains strong.
On screens, that engagement is reduced. You swipe or scroll — same motion every time. It’s fast, flat, and doesn’t build a physical memory of where you were or what came next. The brain misses the little cues that help it stay organized.
This is why print readers often remember where on the page something was, or how thick the book felt when they reached a certain chapter. All of that contributes to contextual memory — a super important part of comprehension.
So what can you do with this knowledge?
Make print part of everyday life — not just for schoolwork, but for fun too. Give your child paper books, even if they love gadgets. Let them hold the book, turn the pages, and even point to words or pictures as they read.
Use bookmarks. Let them mark their favorite page. Give them sticky notes to write questions or thoughts and place them in the book. These actions keep their hands and mind engaged.
If they’re doing digital reading, find ways to add physical movement. Maybe they can keep a notebook beside them to write or draw as they go. Or print out part of the story to let them touch and mark it up.
You can even turn reading into a hands-on game. For example, ask them to find “the word that made you smile the most” and show it to you on the page. That tiny task makes reading more interactive and memorable.
At Debsie, we love learning that includes the whole child — their mind, their body, and their senses. When we add touch to the learning process, we unlock more power in the brain. That’s why we include printable stories, hands-on challenges, and physical activities alongside our digital tools.
Because reading isn’t just about eyes and words. It’s about hands, heart, and memory too.
E-reading at night affects sleep quality and next-day memory
Let’s talk about sleep — and how it’s deeply connected to how well we learn.
When kids (or adults) read on a screen at night, it can mess with the brain’s sleep clock. The blue light from screens sends a signal to the brain that says, “Stay awake!” Even if they feel sleepy, the brain thinks it’s still daytime.
This confusion affects sleep quality, and poor sleep leads to poor memory. So if your child is reading on a tablet right before bed, it could lower their next-day memory, making it harder for them to remember what they read — or even stay focused in class.
This is backed by strong research: screen light, especially blue light, delays the release of melatonin, the sleep hormone. That means it takes longer to fall asleep, and even if you do sleep, it may not be deep or restful.
What’s the fix?
Keep screens out of the bedtime routine. Instead of reading on a tablet in bed, give your child a printed book. It’s relaxing, gentle on the eyes, and it actually helps the brain settle down and get ready to rest.
Try this routine: turn off all screens 30–60 minutes before bed. Use that time for quiet reading, journaling, or even drawing. These screen-free habits help create a stronger sleep rhythm and make sure your child’s brain is fully charged for the next day.
You can also set up a “bedtime reading basket” filled with short printed stories or comics they can choose from. When kids look forward to this quiet moment, they’re more likely to sleep well and start the next day fresh.
Even adults can benefit from this change. Try switching your phone or tablet for a paper book before bed — you’ll likely sleep better and feel more refreshed.
At Debsie, we care not just about learning, but about whole-child well-being. Because a rested brain is a learning brain. And when reading feels calm, comforting, and screen-free, kids grow smarter and happier.
Students are 3x more likely to reread print texts for clarity
Rereading is one of the best habits a learner can have. When you go back over something, you spot things you missed. You connect ideas. You understand the material better. And studies show that students are three times more likely to reread print texts than digital ones when something isn’t clear.
That’s a huge difference.
Why are printed texts easier to reread?
First, they feel easier to navigate. You can flip back quickly, skim pages with your hands, or put a finger on a spot you didn’t understand. There’s no loading time, no swiping past ads or buttons — just a simple return to the information.
On screens, going back often feels like a hassle. You have to scroll or jump to another page number. Sometimes the layout is confusing. And with so many digital distractions, your brain may already be tired before you even think about rereading.
But that second reading — that’s where deep comprehension happens.
So, what can we do?
Encourage your child to reread short parts of a story or lesson, especially if it’s tricky. Let them know that rereading is not a sign of weakness — it’s a superpower. The best learners do it all the time.
With printed books, teach your child to use simple tools like a pencil or sticky notes. Mark parts they want to return to. Ask them to put a star next to any sentence that made them pause or feel confused. That’s the spot to reread.
If your child is using a screen, try reading aloud the second time. This makes it easier to slow down and focus on what the text is really saying. You can also take notes during the second reading to boost memory and understanding.
Even just saying, “Let’s read that part again, slowly,” can make a big difference. The brain needs time to catch ideas — especially new or hard ones.
At Debsie, we celebrate every child’s curiosity. And we teach them that it’s okay to go back, ask again, and reread. That’s not going backward — it’s the real path forward.
Digital reading decreases empathy and emotional response in story-based texts
Stories aren’t just about facts and events — they’re about feelings. They teach us how to walk in someone else’s shoes, feel their pain, celebrate their joy, and grow our own emotional world.
But here’s something surprising: when people read stories on screens, they often feel less empathy and have a weaker emotional response. That means they don’t connect as deeply with the characters or their journeys.
Why does this happen?
One reason is how we read on screens. We scroll fast. We skim. We get interrupted. All these things make it harder to stay in the “emotional space” of the story. It’s like trying to watch a movie while checking your phone every five minutes — you miss the magic.
Printed books give space for feeling. The slow pace, the physical touch, the quiet experience — all of it helps readers stay with the story emotionally. That’s why a paper book can make you cry, laugh, or gasp — you’re fully there, heart and mind.
For children, building empathy through stories is a big part of growing up. It helps them relate to others, handle emotions, and become kind, thoughtful people.
So how can you build emotional connection through reading?
Pick print stories with rich characters and big feelings. Talk about the characters afterward. Ask, “How do you think they felt?” or “What would you have done?”
Create a calm reading space. Turn off all screens and let your child fully enter the world of the story. After reading, give them time to draw or write about what they felt.
Even better, read together. Share a story, pause at key moments, and talk. That builds empathy not just for the character — but between you and your child too.
At Debsie, we believe emotional intelligence is just as important as academic skills. That’s why our stories are built to stir curiosity, wonder, and heart — and why we always recommend printed reading for deeper emotional connection.
Screens lead to 60% more distractions during reading tasks
Distractions are everywhere — and screens invite them like magnets.
Research shows that when reading on a screen, students face 60% more distractions than when reading on paper. That’s a major issue. Because even a tiny distraction — a message ping, a blinking tab, a sudden urge to check another app — pulls the brain away from the text. And every time that happens, it takes a few minutes for the brain to fully get back into focus.
Let’s put that into perspective. If your child is reading for 30 minutes on a tablet and gets distracted every few minutes, they might only get 15 minutes of true, focused reading. That cuts comprehension in half.
On paper, those distractions don’t exist. A printed book isn’t trying to sell you anything. It won’t buzz, light up, or invite you to swipe. It simply waits, letting your brain settle into deep reading mode.
So how do we cut distractions and protect reading time?
Start by turning off notifications on any device used for reading. Use airplane mode when possible. If they’re reading in a browser, close all other tabs. Create a clean digital space with no alerts, sounds, or buttons nearby.
Set a timer for focused reading. Try “reading sprints” — 15 or 20 minutes of pure reading, followed by a short break. This helps the brain stay committed without fatigue.
You can also switch locations. Find a quiet corner away from loud devices, TVs, or busy spaces. Make reading a calm ritual, not something squeezed between other activities.
Most importantly, when it comes to serious reading — choose print whenever you can. It’s the easiest way to remove distractions altogether.
At Debsie, we know that focus is a superpower. It helps kids grow smarter, calmer, and more confident. That’s why we encourage distraction-free reading strategies and provide both digital and printable formats — so kids can read the right way, at the right time.
Readers show less brain activity in regions linked to comprehension during screen reading
Here’s a stat that dives deep into the brain itself.
When scientists look at brain scans of people reading on screens versus paper, they see something striking. **Certain areas of the brain that are tied to comprehension — especially deep understanding and reasoning — show less activity during screen reading.
In simple terms: the brain doesn’t “light up” as much when reading on a screen.
This doesn’t mean screens are bad. It just means they don’t stimulate the comprehension centers of the brain as strongly as print does. Those regions — the parts that help us reflect, connect ideas, and analyze — are critical for school and for life.
Why does this happen?
Reading on a screen often triggers a more surface-level reading style. We skim. We scroll. We get used to speed and distraction. The brain adjusts to that behavior — but that adjustment comes at a cost.
On paper, the slower pace, the fixed layout, and the physical connection activate more areas in the brain. We process language differently. We’re more likely to pause and think. Our memory systems engage. The result? Better understanding, and longer-lasting knowledge.
So how do you help your child get those brain benefits?
Use paper when comprehension matters most — like when studying, reading long texts, or diving into new ideas. Let them read without multitasking, and encourage them to ask questions as they go.
You can also train their brain to read deeper on screens by guiding them. Ask them to summarize a paragraph. Have them close their eyes and retell what they just read. These habits help build brain activity no matter the format.
Think of reading like exercise. The more you do it the right way — with attention and intention — the stronger your brain gets. And printed reading is like weight training for the mind.
At Debsie, we care deeply about building strong thinkers. That’s why our courses include thoughtful reading tasks, memory-building exercises, and lots of brain-friendly strategies to boost comprehension.
Because learning isn’t just about finishing a page — it’s about what your brain does while you read it.
Highlighter use improves retention in print, but not significantly in digital formats
Highlighting is a favorite study trick. Many students use it to mark key points, important facts, or powerful sentences. But here’s the catch: highlighting works really well in print, but it doesn’t help much on screens.
Why?
When we highlight on paper, the action is physical. Your hand moves. Your eyes follow the line. Your brain makes a tiny decision: “This is important.” That combo of motion and attention creates a memory.
On a screen, highlighting is usually just a tap or click. It’s fast, but not deep. You might highlight a lot — or too much. But because your hand isn’t involved in the same way, and you’re not slowing down to think, the brain doesn’t remember the highlighted parts as well.
Also, digital highlights can get lost. You scroll past them. You forget they’re there. With a printed book, the color stands out and stays visible. That visual cue boosts memory when you flip back later.
So how can you use highlighting to truly help your child remember more?
Use print materials for important reading, and let your child highlight with a real marker. Teach them to pause before highlighting and ask, “Why is this important?” That reflection boosts comprehension.
Limit highlighting to key ideas only. Too much color, even on paper, makes it all blend together. Encourage your child to pick 1–2 sentences per page that really matter.
If your child is using a screen, support the highlighting with note-taking. After highlighting, have them write down the idea in their own words. This makes the brain think — and helps the memory stick.
Highlighting is not about pretty pages. It’s about telling your brain: “Pay attention.” And the best way to do that? Slow down, use your hands, and stay focused — especially when using paper.
At Debsie, we teach smart reading habits that build real understanding. We guide students in how to use tools like highlighting, not just to feel busy — but to learn better.
Printed books help improve narrative coherence understanding by 33%
Narrative coherence means understanding how all the parts of a story fit together. It’s the glue that connects beginning to end, ideas to actions, and characters to their choices. And print helps readers build this skill far better than screens — in fact, by 33% more.
Why does this matter?
When kids read a story or a lesson, they need to see the big picture. Who did what, when, and why? What were the causes? What were the effects? If they only catch random parts, they miss the meaning.
Printed books help with this because they keep everything in place. You can go back, see the structure, and hold onto the flow. The fixed layout helps the brain connect dots.
Screens, with their constant scrolling, loading, or clicking, make it harder to feel the story’s full shape. Pieces feel scattered. The mind may latch onto one part, but forget the others.
To build narrative coherence at home, use printed stories with clear beginnings, middles, and ends. After reading, ask your child to explain the story in their own words. This shows whether they truly understood how everything fit together.
Let them draw a timeline or make a simple list of events. These visual tools help the brain link ideas and see the structure more clearly.
If your child is struggling with comprehension, it might not be their reading skill — it might be the format. Try switching to paper and see if things click more easily.
At Debsie, we focus not just on reading, but on helping students build strong thinking habits. That means guiding them to see patterns, connect ideas, and understand stories fully. And we always recommend print for tasks that require deep, connected understanding.
Because the better a child can hold a story together in their mind, the better they’ll do in reading, writing, and real-world thinking.
Comprehension gaps between screen and print are greatest in longer texts
When reading short messages or simple articles, the difference between screens and print might feel small. But when the reading gets longer, something major changes — and not in a good way for screens.
Studies show that the comprehension gap between screen and print grows wider as the text gets longer. That means, the longer the passage, the more kids struggle to understand it on a screen compared to paper.
Why is that?
Long texts require more focus, more memory, and better structure tracking. You need to remember what happened at the start while reading the middle. You need to connect ideas across pages. You need to stay engaged without zoning out.
On screens, that’s much harder. Scrolling replaces page-turning. The text shifts constantly. It’s hard to flip back and check a part you forgot. You lose the physical feeling of progress — how far into the book you are — which helps memory stay organized.
But print holds your place. It doesn’t move unless you want it to. You can flip back, jump ahead, or pause at any spot. That control helps the brain make a map of the story or content. That map is what helps with understanding — and remembering — the whole text.
So, what can parents do?
Use printed formats for long reading assignments or storybooks. Whether it’s a school chapter, a history article, or a long fictional story, give your child a physical version when possible.
Break it into sections. Let them read 2–3 pages at a time, then pause to reflect. This slows the pace and builds better memory.
Use bookmarks to track where they stopped. Ask, “What’s happened so far?” before they continue. This review helps keep the big picture in mind.
If they must read long texts on a screen, encourage note-taking by hand or with a printed summary sheet. That gives their brain something physical to hold onto while dealing with the digital flow.
At Debsie, we think about text length when creating lessons. For deeper topics or longer texts, we offer printable options — because we know comprehension is the goal, not just completion.
Longer reading takes more effort. And paper makes that effort count.
Students who read on paper score better on open-ended questions than those who read digitally
Multiple-choice questions test facts. But open-ended questions test thinking — the kind of understanding that matters most.
And here’s what we know: students who read on paper tend to give better, deeper answers to open-ended questions than those who read the same material on a screen.
Why does this happen?
Open-ended questions ask for more than just a “yes” or “no.” They want a why. A how. A connection. To answer well, students must truly understand the material, remember it clearly, and reflect on what it means.
Reading on paper helps with all of that. It slows the reader down. It keeps them focused. It creates stronger memory pathways. And it lets them take in the material as a whole — not just bits and pieces.
On screens, students are more likely to skim or miss subtle points. Their attention can drift. Their answers may be short, vague, or off-track — not because they’re lazy, but because the material didn’t stick as well.
So how can we help students perform better?
Use print when you want deeper answers. If your child is preparing for essay questions, reading comprehension tests, or discussion tasks, print the material. Let them take notes, underline parts, or even talk about what they’re reading out loud.
After reading, ask open questions at home: “What surprised you?” “What would you change about the ending?” “Why do you think that happened?” These questions build thinking muscles — and they get stronger with practice.
Give your child time. Good answers don’t always come fast. Reading slowly and thinking deeply helps kids feel more confident when it’s time to explain something in their own words.
At Debsie, we love asking big questions. We want kids to go beyond the facts — to explain, wonder, and imagine. And we give them tools that support that kind of reading and thinking, starting with strong, print-friendly texts.
Because deep answers come from deep reading. And paper helps minds go deep.
Annotation habits are more effective on paper for critical thinking
Marking up a book may seem like a simple act. But it’s actually a powerful learning tool — especially for building critical thinking.
Studies show that annotations — underlining, circling, writing notes in the margin — are much more effective on paper than on screens. Why? Because they engage the brain in a deeper way.
When your child writes a thought beside a sentence, they’re doing more than just reading. They’re analyzing. They’re asking questions. They’re connecting the dots.
On paper, this is natural. You hold the pencil, pause, and write. You interact with the text directly. This process slows you down, which is a good thing for thinking.
On screens, annotations often feel clunky or are skipped entirely. Typing on top of a PDF isn’t smooth. Highlighting is overused. Digital notes may be hidden or forgotten.
So how do we build this powerful habit?
Start with paper. Give your child a pencil and encourage them to “talk to the text.” That means writing short notes, arrows, or even little drawings. Let them ask questions like, “Why did he do that?” or “This part feels confusing.” These thoughts are gold for learning.
Teach them that there’s no right or wrong way to annotate. It’s personal. If a sentence reminds them of something, let them write it. If they’re surprised or unsure, let them mark it.
You can model this too. Read a paragraph and say out loud what you’re writing in the margin. Show them that smart readers don’t just read — they respond.
For screens, consider reading first, then writing notes separately in a notebook. That keeps the reflection process alive, even if the interface makes it harder.
At Debsie, we build learning environments that encourage active thinking. Our materials include space for writing, doodling, and pausing — all the things that paper supports beautifully.
Because smart kids aren’t just absorbing facts. They’re wrestling with ideas. And annotation is how they win that fight.
Print reading encourages more reflection, increasing critical comprehension by 22%
Reflection is what happens after the reading — when the mind begins to process, connect, and understand on a deeper level. And here’s the thing: print encourages reflection more naturally than screens. In fact, it boosts critical comprehension by as much as 22%.
Why is that?
Reading on paper is slower. It has natural pauses — turning a page, finishing a chapter, or putting the book down. These moments give the brain space to think. To ask, “What does this mean?” or “How does this connect to what I already know?”
On screens, those pauses often don’t happen. When the text ends, the next one loads. There’s little time to reflect — just constant movement. That flow can be fun, but it leaves less room for the deeper thinking that leads to real understanding.
Critical comprehension isn’t just about remembering the facts. It’s about judging, questioning, and connecting. It’s about seeing what’s between the lines — and that kind of thinking takes space.
So how do you build that reflection habit?
Read slowly, and talk afterward. Ask your child, “What stuck with you?” or “What surprised you?” These open-ended questions start reflection.
If they’re using printed materials, let them write short reflections in the margin — even just one word: “Wow,” “Strange,” “Huh?” — anything that shows they’re engaging.
Create time for silent reflection too. After reading, let them sit quietly and think. Not every thought needs to be spoken right away. Reflection often starts silently.
If you’re using screens, build in reflection time by stopping after each section. Don’t just scroll to the next part. Pause. Ask, “What just happened?” or “What do you think will happen next?”
At Debsie, we teach thinking, not just reading. And part of that is helping kids slow down, think deeply, and find their own thoughts in the text.
Because true learning doesn’t happen when you finish the book — it happens when you start to think about it afterward.
Readers are less confident in their understanding after reading digital texts
Confidence is key in learning. When students finish reading something, they should feel clear and sure about what they just read. But studies show that readers who use screens often feel less confident in their understanding afterward. Even if they read the same content, they’re more likely to say, “I’m not sure I got it.”
Why is that?
Screens create a kind of mental fog. The scrolling, tapping, and screen glare can make the reading feel more like a task to finish than a journey to enjoy. Because of this, students don’t always notice that they’ve missed parts — they just sense that something didn’t quite click.
On paper, the experience is more stable. The reader sees the whole page, holds the book, and gets a feeling of completion. These signals boost confidence. When you feel confident, you’re more likely to use what you learned, speak up in class, or answer a test question with certainty.
Confidence doesn’t come from guessing. It comes from truly understanding — and that understanding is more solid when reading is clear, calm, and distraction-free.
So how can we help build that confidence?
Use print when you want your child to feel strong in what they know. Let them review the text, highlight key points, and explain the material back to you. All these steps reinforce learning and build self-trust.
You can also ask, “How sure do you feel about what you just read?” If they’re unsure, go back and read again — together or alone. That’s not a step backward — it’s how confidence grows.
At Debsie, we help students build both knowledge and belief in themselves. We show them how to read in ways that leave them feeling strong, not confused. Because when kids believe they understand — they learn better, test better, and feel better too.
Screen readers overestimate their comprehension by 20% compared to actual performance
This one’s tricky — because it shows that screens can fool us. When people read on a screen, they often think they understood more than they did. In fact, readers on screens overestimate their comprehension by about 20%.
That’s a big gap between what they think they know and what they really know.
Why does this happen?
Digital reading often gives a false sense of fluency. The scrolling feels smooth. The words go by quickly. There’s no pause to reflect. That speed can make the brain feel like it “got it,” even when it didn’t.
But when students are later tested or asked to explain what they read, the truth shows up — they missed details, misunderstood points, or forgot key parts.
This is called illusion of comprehension, and it’s dangerous in learning. It makes students stop reviewing, stop asking questions, and feel unprepared when it matters most — like during a test.
With print, this overconfidence happens far less. The act of turning pages, the slower pace, and the physical interaction with the book all slow the brain down — in a good way. They give the brain more time to check: “Do I really get this?”
So what can we do?
Help kids test their own understanding. After reading, ask them to summarize the content or teach it to someone else. If they struggle, that’s a signal to review.
Use printed texts for high-stakes learning — the ones that really matter. Let them highlight, take notes, and pause to reflect. These actions protect against overconfidence.
Teach them that real comprehension feels calm, not rushed. Help them see that it’s okay — even smart — to double-check, reread, and ask questions.
At Debsie, we build tools to help kids become aware learners — not just fast readers. We show them how to slow down, ask better questions, and check their own understanding.
Because confidence should be based on truth, not speed. And great learning comes when kids know what they know — and know what they need to learn next.
Conclusion:
We’ve walked through some eye-opening stats — and they all tell the same story: Print reading still matters. A lot.
Yes, screens are part of our lives. They’re fast, convenient, and full of features. But when it comes to real understanding, memory, and focus, paper wins — again and again.