US Literacy in Crisis: Why Action Can’t Wait

At Mrs Wordsmith, our mission is simple: to help every child become a confident, joyful reader. But recent US literacy statistics are a wake-up call for all of us. According to the 2023 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), reading proficiency among American students is slipping… and the consequences reach far beyond the classroom. It’s time for urgent, collective action to turn the page on this crisis.

The Numbers Tell a Troubling Story

The NAEP’s 2023 results reveal a decline in reading scores for 13-year-olds, with performance down across the board compared to 2020. Even more concerning, the average reading score for 13-year-olds shows no meaningful improvement since 1971. For 9-year-olds, scores in 2022 were lower than just two years prior, despite being higher than five decades ago. The trend is clear: recent years have seen an alarming drop in reading achievement.But it’s not just about test scores. Fewer children are reading for fun than ever before. In 2020, only 42% of 9-year-olds and 17% of 13-year-olds reported reading for enjoyment almost every day – the lowest rates since 1984. Meanwhile, the number of children who never or hardly ever read for fun is rising, with nearly a third of 13-year-olds falling into this category. These habits vary by gender and race, with girls and Asian American students more likely to read for pleasure than boys or Black students.The literacy challenge doesn’t end with childhood. An estimated 43 million US adults (about 21% of the adult population) struggle with basic reading tasks. Non-native English speakers and some racial and ethnic groups are disproportionately affected, but low literacy touches every community.

Why Literacy Matters

Literacy is the foundation for lifelong learning, opportunity, and well-being. When children struggle to read, it impacts how they perform in every subject in school. Beyond this, it limits future job prospects and can even affect mental health. For adults, low literacy makes everyday life harder, from reading instructions to supporting their own children’s education.

What Needs to Change? A Call to Action

Although this crisis is urgent, the solutions are within reach. Here’s how we can all help close the literacy gap:

1. Foster a Love of Reading

Children who read for pleasure become better readers. Schools, libraries, and families can make reading fun through book clubs, reading challenges, and by offering a wide range of engaging books. 

2. Empower Parents and Caregivers

Parents are children’s first teachers. Schools and communities should provide resources and workshops to help families make reading a joyful, daily habit. Simple acts like reading together, and talking about stories can make a world of difference.

3. Expand Access to Books and Resources

Every child deserves access to quality books, no matter where they live. Mobile libraries, book donation drives, and digital libraries can bring reading materials to underserved communities. Technology can also help bridge gaps, making books and learning tools available anytime, anywhere.

4. Leverage Technology for Good

Digital tools and adaptive learning apps can make reading interactive and tailored to each child’s capabilities. Virtual tutoring, online courses, and educational games can support readers at every level, from early learners to adults seeking new skills.

5. Support Adult Literacy

We can’t forget the millions of adults who need help, too. Flexible, practical literacy programs can empower adults to build skills and confidence, benefiting families and communities for generations.

6. Engage the Whole Community

Literacy is everyone’s business. Local businesses, non-profits, and volunteers can mentor, fund, and champion literacy programs. By building a culture that values reading, we inspire more people to pick up a book and discover the joy of words.

Mrs Wordsmith’s Commitment

At Mrs Wordsmith, we’re passionate about making reading irresistible. Our resources combine comedy, storytelling, and research-backed strategies to help children fall in love with words and literacy in general. But we know we can’t do it alone. It takes all of us – families, schools, communities, and policymakers – to meet this urgent challenge. So let’s unite to ensure every child and adult in America has the chance to become a confident reader. Because literacy isn’t just a skill – it’s the key to a brighter future for us all.