Studies have shown that children who are read to at an early age develop the academic and social skills needed for success in school faster than those who aren't. In order to increase these skills, MHHC has implemented "Reach Out and Read," a nationally renowned program aimed at increasing literacy in children six months to five years. The three key components of the program are:
  • Volunteers read with children in the patient waiting area.
  • During well-child visits, physicians and nurse practitioners advice parents about the importance of reading with young children and offer tips.
  • Children receive a new, developmentally- and culturally-appropriate book to take home and keep, at every well-child visit from six months to five years of age.
For more information:
"Reach Out and Read" Program:
http://www.reachoutandread.org
"Reach Out and Read" reading tips:
http://www.reachoutandread.org/resource_tip.html
Adult Literacy Program from the NYC Public Library:
http://www.nypl.org/branch/local/crw/
Literacy Links:
http://www.lacnyc.org/other/index.htm