I REFER to the ongoing discussion on the standard of English in Singapore.

Improving English, or any language for that matter, requires more than a simple formula. And one of the most effective ways of learning and improving any language is through reading.

I have witnessed many occasions where parents set up mobile DVD players in restaurants to amuse their children while they have their dinner undisturbed. A book is a better tool to keep a child amused and occupied. Children should be encouraged to read to fill these pockets of time.

How does one get a child to read?

A child reads when his parents read. It is difficult to expect the child to discover the wonder of a book when his parents are watching TV or playing computer games. Parents must take the lead.

Karen Chay (Mrs)

This article was first published in The Straits Times.