Who do parents listen to when it comes to advice about their children? Pediatricians. Research shows that when a pediatrician recommends reading aloud to a child, parents are more likely to do it.
Ready to Read is pleased to have the local medical community helping to spread the reading message. Local pediatricians “prescribe” reading aloud for healthy child development, and distribute gift books at well-child visits from six months to five years.
Ready to Read has expanded the concept of Rx: Reading, to include other professionals. Social workers with the Elizabeth Upjohn Community Healing Center and Healthy Babies/Healthy Start programs talk with clients about reading to children and give away books. Nutritionists and nurses with the Kalamazoo County and Family Health Center WIC programs and immunization clinics, and speech/language pathologists with the Preprimary Evaluation Team of KRESA, also help get the message to parents and present gift books. Food Pantry volunteers distribute books along with emergency food supplies through Loaves & Fishes.
The important role of pediatricians in promoting early childhood literacy.