The Reach Out & Read program provides the framework for clinicians to work with families around the value of literacy. Books are provided to each child at each well-child exam from 2 weeks-5 years.
During well-child exams, we talk with parents about the benefits of reading aloud and sharing with their young children beginning at birth. We show them how to hold books to best engage their children, and how to interact with the text and images to help them follow along. We share advice for talking about stories with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Families gain a deeper understanding of why they should make reading a daily habit, and leave inspired to cuddle up with their young one and a book.
“I think giving a child a book when they have an appointment is a great idea. I think talking to parents about speech development go hand in hand with the gift of a book.”
