The Importance of Reading In Educational Development Reading is the most fundamental part of a child's educational development, because it helps them develop the skills that they would need to pursue life's goals and to participate fully as informed, productive members of society. If children cannot read they will not be able to learn other subject areas such as science and history. A balance program using phonics and whole-language, is the most effective and proven way to teach children to read. President Clinton introduced the America Reads challenge two years ago callin