Books help kids grow in so many ways. Reading builds vocabulary, sparks imagination, boosts confidence, and helps children succeed in school. And for families, reading together is a simple way to make meaningful memories every day.
This article is sponsored by St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children.
That is why early literacy matters so much. In Philadelphia, about 7 in 10 fourth graders are not reading at grade level, showing just how important it is to help children build strong reading habits early.
One program making a big difference is Reach Out and Read at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, which serves families through its main hospital in Philadelphia and locations across the suburbs.
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Reach Out and Read is a national nonprofit organization that trains and supports pediatricians and nurse practitioners to integrate early literacy into routine check-ups. Pediatric teams provide families with brand-new books for children up to age five to take home from well-child visits and offer guidance about the importance of reading together every day.
Through the program, children receive free books at every visit, and more than 800,000 books have been donated to families.
Even just a few minutes of reading together each day can help children build skills, confidence, and a lifelong love of books!
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Small, simple habits can help children develop a love for reading. Here are a few tips that families can try:
- Read every day: Try to make reading part of a daily routine. This can be carving out 15-20 minutes of reading each day or choosing to read a book together before bedtime.
- Talk about the story: Ask questions like “Who is your favorite character?” or “What do you think will happen next?” This will help keep your child engaged and help them understand the story better.
- Let children choose books: Kids are more excited to read when they pick stories about things that interest them.
- Utilize community resources: Libraries and community centers offer free books, story times, and fun learning programs for families.
- Connect reading to daily life: Ask children to read signs, menus, or labels at the grocery store. These small moments help them practice reading skills in ways that are not tied to books.
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Helping children become strong readers does not have to be complicated. A few minutes of reading each day can make a big difference. When families, doctors, schools, and communities work together, they create a supportive environment where children can grow their love of books and learning!
Learn all about St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children’s services.
