COLUMNIST Johan Jaaffar’s article “No substitute for reading to kids” (The Star, Nov 28) should be mandatory reading for parents, carers and anyone fortunate enough to have the chance to read to young children. Besides the rising problem of obsession with smart gadgets for children, we should heed Bill Gates’ advice that technology is just a tool and the teacher or parent is most important to guide and motivate them.

In our busy daily lives, the few minutes spent reading to our children are well worth the effort as we would also get the opportunity to bond with them. Reading provides “time out” and encourages a useful two-way interaction between the parent and child.