Recent data from the Department of Education has revealed that more than one in seven boys can’t write their own name at the age of five, and figures indicate that 15 per cent of boys struggle to form simple words such as ‘dog’ and ‘cat’ from memory at the end of reception.

When it comes to basic writing, boys are twice as likely to fail as girls, and eight percent of boys cannot count up to ten, compared to five per cent of girls.

This data comes amid concerns that increasing numbers of boys are failing to get a good start to their education, with the Department of Education stating that “girls continue to achieve at a higher level than boys” in areas of development.

Further Figures

The data also revealed a number of other trends:

  • 38% of boys were not of able to “attempt writing for a variety of purposes” compared with 19% of girls, this included a basic letter to Santa.
  • 5% of boys were unable to sing simple songs from memory compared with 2% of girls.
  • 4% of boys were unable to “dress and undress independently and manage their own hygiene”, compared with just 1% of girls.

Suggestions

Many suggestions from a wide range of experts within the industry have been made as to why this gender gap is emerging, with a shortage of male teachers and an anti book culture amongst fathers cited as just two of them.

In response to this gender gap, Badger Learning has created a collection of books for boys, which are written with storylines and styles to appeal.

We genuinely believe that if you get the right book to the right child, they will enjoy reading, and picking books that appeal to their interests and passions, is a strong step in that direction.

We’d love to hear if you have had success with a particular title or collection with the boys in your class, or you have any related tips you would like to share, just comment below!

Image Credit: Woodleywonderworks@ Flickr