Papà, mi leggi?

Abstract

As elsewhere, in Italy girls read more than boys, and mothers read more to their children than fathers, despite growing evidence on the impact of fathers’ reading on children’s linguistic, cognitive and relational skills, as well as on fathers themselves for parent-child bonding, and to enhance fathers’ empathy and emotional self-awareness. There is also evidence that both fathers and mothers may spend more time reading to girls than to boys who can be more restive physically and less attentive. Reading tends to be viewed as a feminine domain. The authors recommend promoting reading by fathers, as well as mothers, for the father-child relationship, increasing fathers’ self confidence in their parenting skills, and for the child’s cognitive and psycho-social development. Overcoming the stereotype that reading is mainly a female activity and promoting caring masculinities that help to prevent domestic violence are also important.