There is a huge range of resources available that testify to the importance of reading and engaging in activities with children for their overall skill development and creativity. In my opinion, although reading is an effective factor, it is better to take part in fun and active circumstances.
Many have argued that reading experiences can both increase the inspiration and the imagination of children. For instance, parents who read books to their children every night, have recognized that they imagine themselves as the characters of the story. So this is clearly evidenced that it can help the development of inspiration, creativity, and other various overall skills.
However, participating and engaging in activities and tasks that need the association of a child and an adult are much more effective. Playing with children and taking part in their living experiences make learning environments for them and improve their chances of experiencing new skills and showing new behaviors toward new situations. A kid who plays any kind of sport not only has the opportunity to be active and learn a new field but also has the chance to be with other people and enhance her or his social skills and experience a lot of new challenges that cannot have them just by reading.
In conclusion, it appears to me despite the benefits of reading for imagination, I would argue that a more active undertaking has more concrete and memorable advantages. But parents should not ignore the importance of reading and the balance between these two factors must considered.