Three ways to improve the quality of books for primary school age children
#OurchildrenTheirbooks, Group work — ISAAC, JUVENTUS, YINKA, IRE
There are concerns by parents and educators about the quality of books approved for primary age children in Nigeria.
And their concerns are really valid

Because some of the content are just inappropriate for children

But the problem is not only limited to Nigeria.
Therefore this calls for an evaluation of the criteria used in selecting books for primary school age children. The suggestions below can help.
Look beyond grammar, morals count too
Some books approved for school-age children in Nigeria contain provocative images of human body parts presented with little thought for discretion.
Therefore, books presented for approval must not contain offensive images. All efforts should be made to protect pre-teens from images and texts that distort standards of moral conduct.
Many educators say that parents have the obligation to teach their children sex education, so books on biology should be limited to functions of body parts.
Merit works, every time.
Nigeria’s ministry of education approves books used for external examinations such as the West African Council Examinations (WEAC) and its general certificate equivalent.
However state governments approve the books used at primary school level and this is where it gets tricky. Some say books are approved based on criteria beyond merit. For some, it could be their connections with officials at the education ministry or some bribe corrupt officials.
This calls for a stronger approval process to deal with challenge.
Better models for selecting educational books
In many places, a school board looks at the proposed books for primary school age children and a committee of educators are invited to review these books. The school board selects the book based on their recommendations.

However, the goals of education should be the basis for approving the recommended books.
Parents play a significant role in monitoring, guidance and supervision
