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A quarter of children and young people listen to audiobooks, with many new listeners starting during the first lockdown, according to new research by the National Literacy Trust (NLT).
The research, supported by Audible, surveyed 42,502 children and young people aged eight to 18. It showed, following the year of national lockdowns and school closures as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, that one in 10 (9.3%) said they downloaded an audiobook for the first time, and a further one in 10 (9.6%) downloaded more audiobooks. Almost half (48.7%) of children and young people listened to podcasts and audiobooks in the last year and one in four (23.3%) listen to just podcasts, in addition to one in four who listen to audiobooks or audiobooks with podcasts.
Likewise, 40% agreed they use their imagination more when listening to stories than when watching videos, with one in five children and young people saying that listening to an audiobook or podcast got them interested in reading books and two in five (43.1%) agreeing that listening to audiobooks helps them understand a subject.
The NLT said audiobooks can break some of the barriers to reading for reluctant readers, with a smaller gender gap in listening enjoyment compared to reading. Around 45.6% of boys have the lowest levels of reading enjoyment rates compared to girls (55.9%) and those who self-describe their gender as other than boy or girl (60.7%). However, when it comes to listening, boys are more likely to listen to audiobooks than girls, and almost as likely as those who self-describe their gender as other than boy or girl, to say they enjoy listening (45.9% versus 41.8% and 48%).
The new findings complement research from the charity in 2020 which highlighted the power of audiobooks to engage reluctant, struggling and developing readers. It said audio allows children and young people to access a wide range of stories, and listen to stories beyond their reading level.
Jonathan Douglas, chief executive of the NLT said: “Since the start of the pandemic, when schools and libraries closed, we have been exploring the benefits of audiobooks for children and young people. We know that audiobooks, which many access for free online, have provided a lifeline to countless children and young people.
“Last year’s research showed us that audiobooks can encourage positive literacy behaviours, which is immensely encouraging considering the boom in new listeners over the last year. It is clear this is an area that warrants further exploration and research, both here at the National Literacy Trust and in homes and classrooms across the country.”
Kevin Addley, v.p. country manager at Audible, added: "We are delighted to support this research from the National Literacy Trust. At Audible, we know the power of the spoken word in enchanting and engaging readers of all ages. The last year and a half have been exceptionally turbulent for children and young people and we are so glad audio has provided interest and enjoyment, all while boosting literacy.”
The research report can be downloaded in full here.