Reading is fundamental. It’s not just the name of this month’s nonprofit organization, it’s also a universal truth.
As parents we track every milestone our babies reach – walking, talking, potty training, and, of course, reading. All of those board books and bedtime stories during infant and toddler years can help develop an interest in reading from an early age. Here are some great tips to help your child on the path to reading.
But did you know there are 16 million children living in poverty in the United States and of those, two-thirds don’t have a book to call their own?
Reading Is Fundamental (RIF), the nation’s largest children’s literacy organization, wants to get books into every child’s hands. Since it was established in 1966, RIF has given 412 million books to more than 40 million children, but there is still more work to be done.
There are three different ways that RIF works to enhance literacy for our children:
Books to Kids - Providing underserved children the opportunity to choose free books to keep and encouraging parents to get involved in their children’s literacy.
Read for Success - RIF’s new evidenced-based program proven to help improve reading proficiency among today’s elementary students through extensive teacher training, book access, parental involvement and curriculum-based enrichment activities.
Literacy Resources - Free downloadable activities for children 0-8 and literacy resources for parents and teachers including extensive multicultural and STEAM-themed (science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics) book lists, activities, and collections.
Finally, as many of us head into summer vacation, RIF reminds parents of the importance of avoiding the “summer slide.” According to them, all children are at risk for losing some learning gained during the school year – most in danger are those from economically-disadvantaged communities. Students who “slide” rarely catch up, and if nothing is done, this can add up to three years of reading loss by the end of fifth grade.
Stop the slide at your house with the help of RIF, who has new book lists, word games and activities, tips for parents and FREE e-books on its website at www.rif.org/summer. Plus, RIF is giving away a FREE 50 e-book library to anyone who wants one this summer! Visit www.rif.org/50ebooks for details. While you’re on their website, sign up for their monthly newsletter to stay in-the-know and receive free tips and resources from literacy experts.
