Reading is the foundation for learning, yet a vast gap exists in access to books for lower-income neighborhoods. According to the Handbook of Literacy Research, in low-income neighborhoods, the ratio of books per child outside the school setting is just one age-appropriate book for every 300 children. Without books in the home, children lack the opportunity to practice reading skills and are exposed to fewer opportunities to build their vocabularies. While these limitations can hinder personal performance, multiple studies correlate low literacy rates with social concerns like elevated drop-out rates, reliance on welfare programs, and criminal activity. Literacy affects the community as a whole, so becoming a literacy advocate within your family, neighborhood, or area schools is a cause worthy of attention and effort. You can be a champion of literacy wherever you may live by using these tips:
Give Books to Children
The joy of receiving and opening a gift is exciting in its own right, but a book is a gift that keeps giving. You can make a book gift extra special by choosing a topic or theme that has special meaning, such as a place you’d like to visit together or a beloved character you enjoy incorporating into your make-believe playtime with the child. As a bonus, read the book together for the first time so it always carries a special memory.
Take Steps to Support Literacy
Eight Ways to Inspire Children to Read
(Article courtesy of Family Features)
Visit the Library
Reading is the foundation for learning.
20 www.sghealthandwellnessmagazine.com
Libraries can be awe-inspiring places for kids. The wall-to-wall books represent thousands of possibilities. With so many options to choose from, you can introduce children to the delight of discovering different genres, enchanting topics, and favorite authors who keep you coming back for more.
When children have their own library cards, they can practice the grown-up process of checking out and caring for books. What’s more, honoring due dates helps teach responsibility. Marking that date on the calendar is a fun way to build anticipation toward the next visit.
Support Organizations That Promote Literacy
Conducting your business with companies that share your commitment to literacy is a way to inspire reading on a larger scale. One example is The UPS Store, which created the Toys for Tots Literacy Program in partnership with the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation to provide disadvantaged children with direct access to books and educational resources that enhance their ability to read and communicate effectively. If you are interested, you can donate at participating locations or contribute online.
