In today’s world, screens are everywhere. More than ever, books are being swapped for tablets and iPhones. Story time has given way to endless hours of cartoons, YouTube videos, and video games. While technology can offer valuable educational tools, many families notice that screen time is taking the place of something truly special: reading together.  

Lorena Agustin, a Spanish-speaking mom of two living in Charleston County, has seen the impact of prolonged screen exposure firsthand with her 9-year-old son. Like many parents, she found it easy to rely on screens to keep him entertained. However, she soon began to see the effects— challenges in school, behavior issues, and a growing disconnect when it came to learning.  

“As a mom, I struggled to help him with his schoolwork. I wasn’t confident in English and I didn’t know how to help him with his reading,” she said.  

Looking back, Lorena wished she had pushed her son to read earlier. Now, she uses her son’s experience as a cautionary tale for other parents. 

“Phones and tablets turn into a struggle later on. I know from experience, and that’s due to being careless and not pushing my son to read which made things harder for him in school, but I invite all parents to spend some time with their children reading so they don’t repeat the same mistakes I did,” she said. 

When her daughter was born, she knew she had to do things differently. 

A turning point came when she discovered Motheread/Fatheread, a free literacy initiative for parents with young children ages 0–5. The program offers group-based adult literacy classes with an emphasis on the importance of reading regularly as a family. 

Activities include modeling and practicing read-aloud techniques to help children engage with stories. Parents also have the chance to reflect on adult writings which may be connected to a piece of children's literature or a writing skill. These group sessions allowed Lorena to practice language skills with other parents and feel supported by her community. 

Although many participants were nervous at first, the classes were welcoming and culturally sensitive. As Lorena got more comfortable with the other mothers, they began to open to one another and form relationships. 

“We were able to talk more to each other about our routines and teaching methods for the kids to read,” she said. 

With help from Motheread/Fatheread, Lorena learned how to build a reading routine at home and enjoys screen-free bonding time with her daughter. 

“Instead of asking to watch a cartoon, now she brings me a book to read. She likes for me to read it to her, and we look at the drawings together. I ask her a question, and she always looks for an answer,” she said. 

In today's digital age, it's easy for parents to rely on screens to occupy their children. Lorena's story demonstrates the need for intentionality in fostering a love for reading, prioritizing books over screens to build powerful bonds, stimulate imagination, and encourage curiosity. 

“We have to push ourselves. We have to put in the best of ourselves to teach them and encourage our children to love reading,” she said. 

Learn more about Motheread/Fatheread and other parenting programs offered by First Steps. 

Topics: Parenting, Literacy