Children Quote by Maryanne Wolf
“The same plasticity that allows us to form a reading circuit to begin with, and short-circuit the development of deep reading if we allow it, also allows us to learn how to duplicate deep reading in a new environment. We cannot go backwards. As children move more toward an immersion in digital media, we have to figure out ways to read deeply there.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Reader, The Museum of Human Memory by Maryanne Wolf, 2018
The brain’s adaptability lets us develop deep reading skills, but also makes it easy to lose them if we rely too much on digital media; we must intentionally cultivate deep reading in digital contexts.
In simple terms: Our brains can both build and break deep reading habits; we need to practice deep reading online.
Actively train deep reading in digital environments.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- classroom instruction
- online learning
- personal reading habits
- media literacy programs
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we design digital platforms that support deep reading?
- What habits help maintain focus online?
Digital distractions can undermine deep reading despite training.