The article highlights a concerning trend: Gen Alpha, children born from 2010 onwards, are facing a literacy crisis that could exacerbate societal divides. Key points include: 1) Privileged children have access to resources that foster reading skills, while underprivileged children lack such support, widening the achievement gap. 2) The pandemic disrupted early childhood education, impacting literacy development. 3) Technology and screen time may contribute to shorter attention spans and reduced reading engagement. 4) Experts warn of long-term consequences, including diminished job prospects and social mobility for those with poor literacy skills. 5) Proposed solutions involve increased investment in early childhood education, family literacy programs, and addressing socioeconomic disparities. The article underscores the urgency of addressing this literacy crisis to prevent a deepening societal divide.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/gen-alpha-reading-literacy-crisis-privilege-society-divide-2024-12