I totally agree with Malcolm Higgins (Bedtime story was a must for us, Letters, May 15). From when they are very young (ie babies) all children should have books, even if only to look at the pictures of animals, flowers, birds etc.

They need to learn the basics of words and spellings including their name before they go to school. It’s the parents’ responsibility if they expect them to do well. The ones who don’t read with their children or grandchildren don’t know what they are missing.

We did it with ours and our granddaughter and they never felt left behind. There is too much these days of giving your child a tablet or a mobile phone to look at, which is not recommended in the first few years and is nothing to do with education. Time will tell.

Frances Ruane,

Almsford Road, York