Reading to children is one of the most important things parents can do to improve developmental milestones. A new report from Scholastic shows that many parents are meeting this challenge head-on. In the latest Kids & Family Reading Report: 8th Edition, from Scholastic, data finds that infrequent readers report higher levels of nervousness and anxiety at 50 percent compared with 39 percent of those who read regularly. 

Sadness and depression rates are also higher among infrequent readers, at 50 percent, compared with 25 percent of regular readers. Rates of loneliness were also higher among infrequent readers at 30 percent compared with 19 percent of regular readers. 

"Here at Scholastic, we know that children's books have superpowers, and this new research demonstrates just how invaluable books are for supporting communication with children, from birth through adolescence to graduation and beyond," said Deimosa Webber-Bey, director of information services and cultural Insight at Scholastic. 

The report explored the attitudes of parents toward reading and the resources they are tapping into to help their children become regular readers. More than 90 percent of parents reported that they agree that books can create opportunities for conversations with children.

Nearly 80 percent of parents with infants, toddlers and preschoolers said they have used children's books to support their parenting efforts. More than 54 percent of parents report books have helped children understand feelings and emotions, and 47 percent of respondents said books have been used to help children explore their interests.

Parents of elementary-aged children reported they have sought specific books that can lead to broach discussions about different or new experiences that their child may be facing. More than 20 percent of parents reported they have used books to address bullying, while 32 percent have used them to discuss difficult topics.

Two-thirds of parents with teens said they believe it is important for their child to read books with characters who are like them and their experiences. Meanwhile, 86 percent said they believe books create opportunities for them to have conversations with their child.

"Books can provide comfort, a portal to faraway places, an introduction to new concepts and a helping hand when broaching tough topics,” Webber-Bey said. “With this new compilation of research, our hope is that families will feel empowered to incorporate books into all aspects of their parenting efforts and that books can serve parents in building an everlasting bond with their child." 

The report also found teens see books as offering opportunities for introspection, with half of teens saying a book has helped them with their feelings, including confidence, happiness and feeling thankful.