How CMR Gandhi Public School Encourages Reading Habits in Children

Introduction

Technology has taken over literally every aspect of human life. From cooking to education, you can hardly find any part of our daily routine that doesn’t use digital tools. According to very recent (February 2025) data from Statista, the percentage of internet users in India has skyrocketed from 13.5% in 2014 to 55.3% in 2025. 

So, it is not hard to understand that the internet has become a part of children’s lives as well. Many parents give their children mobile phones to keep them quiet. Yes, it works. But do you know what harm you may be doing to your own child? Regular usage of phones is decreasing the focusing capabilities of children. It harms their hormonal balance (dopamine, melatonin, etc.), sleep, and even eyesight.  

That is why reading habits nowadays have become an important part of the curriculum at CMR Gandhi Public School. It improves a child’s cognitive abilities, enhances focus, and helps in emotional growth. CMR GPS implements “creative and interactive” strategies to help students develop a regular habit of reading. This makes CMR GPS among the best schools in Sarjapur Road. 

1. Early Reading Initiatives at CMR GPS

At CMR GPS, the focus on early reading initiatives is particularly evident in the Playgroup, Montessori, and Primary School levels. The school builds the primary foundation of reading habits at these levels. 

Storytelling Sessions for Pre-primary and Primary Students

In our childhood, we all got introduced to the world of books after we listened to the fascinating stories of our grandparents or parents. So, storytelling is the most powerful tool for children to explore different books or stories. At CMR GPS, storytelling sessions are a regular feature in the early grades. In these sessions, teachers bring stories to life using expressive language, animations, and even role-play. Such interactive sessions help children develop an interest in reading by engaging their imagination and giving them an understanding of how fascinating the stories are.

Use of Picture Books and Interactive Read-Alouds

Picture books are where children develop an early interest in books. They help young readers associate words with images and aid in vocabulary development and comprehension. CMR Gandhi Public School uses lots of different picture books in reading and learning sessions, which encourage children to read more such books. These, in turn, help improve their focus and develop cognitive function. 

2. Creating a Reading Culture

A school’s culture plays an integral role in how students perceive reading. We promote reading as not just an activity but an integral part of the school culture, promoted through various structured initiatives.

Dedicated Library Periods for Every Grade

Every grade at CMR GPS has dedicated library periods. These sessions help students to explore different books and encourage reading slowly, at their own pace. The school’s well-equipped library provides students with access to a wide variety of reading materials, including fiction, non-fiction, educational books, and more.

During library periods, teachers guide students to choose books that match their interests and reading levels. This not only helps them develop a reading habit but also improves critical thinking as they explore topics of personal interest. 

Access to a Well-Stocked Library with Over 10,000 Books

CMR GPS has its expansive library, which houses more than 10,000 books. Here, every child can find whatever they want to read or learn about. The library is not just a place for academic learning but also a space for students to explore and enjoy reading as a pastime.

3. Student Choice & Interest-Based Reading

Children often get forced to read certain things or certain books, even though they do not have interest in them. Many institutions force students to read certain textbooks, which is the main reason why they lose interest in reading books. 

Encouraging Students to Pick Their Favourite Genres

What makes CMR Gandhi Public School different from other CBSE schools in Bangalore Sarjapur Road is the fact that students here can pick their favourite genres of books to read. It motivates them to read more books. As the school boasts a huge library with over 10,000 books, it has books on almost all topics students may like to read about. 

Book Club: A Weekly Reading Event

One of the most exciting aspects of the school’s reading culture is the weekly book club that takes place at CMR GPS. This student-driven initiative helps children discuss the books they are reading, share their opinions, and explore different perspectives. This book club strengthens students’ reading skills and enhances a sense of community, where they can connect over shared interests and ideas.

4. Role of Teachers and Parents

Unlike other schools in Sarjapur Road Bangalore, CMR GPS makes sure that the teachers do not just act as educators but become role models who actively engage with books themselves, setting an example for their students. 

Teachers as Reading Role Models

Teachers at CMR GPS are avid readers themselves, and they encourage their students to be the same. Teachers encourage discussing books, sharing reading experiences, and recommending titles and inspiring students to adopt reading as a lifelong habit. This role-modelling approach is important in cultivating a positive attitude toward reading.

Workshops for Parents on How to Support Reading at Home

Parents are the child’s first educators. This is why CMR GPS holds regular workshops for parents on how to support reading at home. These workshops help parents understand strategies to make reading enjoyable, how to choose age-appropriate books, and ways to create a reading-friendly environment at home.

5. Reading-Related Activities

What makes CMR Gandhi Public School among the best CBSE schools in Sarjapur Road Bangalore? CMR GPS goes beyond traditional reading activities by organising a variety of reading-related events and initiatives that make reading a fun and engaging experience for students. 

Reading Challenges and Competitions

The school organises reading challenges and competitions to motivate students to read more. Students benefit from these activities not only by having fun but also by gaining a sense of achievement as they strive to reach their reading goals.

Author Meet-and-Greets, Quizzes, and Book-Based Projects

CMR GPS also hosts author meet-and-greets, where students can interact with their favourite authors and learn more about the writing process. Moreover, quizzes and book-based projects help students to dive deeper into the material they’ve read and showcase their comprehension skills.

Conclusion

Reading is much more than a basic skill. It is a lifelong habit that shapes children’s futures. It helps them improve their focus and many other brain functions. The school encourages students to develop a love for reading early on, ensuring they grow into well-rounded individuals. The variety of programs and initiatives makes CMR Gandhi Public School among the best schools in Sarjapur Road.