The Born to Read Initiative is a local charity which seeks funds to raise awareness about the importance of early literacy and to provide two new children's books to every baby born at Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital. The committee encourages parents/caregivers to read early and often and join one of four local libraries. Enclosed with the books is a colourful library brochure providing parents with information on joining a local library to experience the many creative early literacy programs for babies, toddlers and youth. The Orillia Public Library receives the donations and kindly send a tax receipt for donations of $20.00 or more. Each year our committee provides two new children's books for each package. Along with the books and the brochure we thank individual donors and groups within the area by including a thank you logo page and a page of testimonials from parents.
We introduce the package with a congratulatory letter and a donation form in case the family can 'pay it forward'.
There are 5 goals of the project:
1. to raise awareness of the importance of early literacy;
2. to provide two new children's books to each new baby born at OSMH;
3. to encourage parents to join one of four local libraries;
4. to encourage a close and secure bond between parent and baby;
5. to encourage parents to read early and often to new babies and toddlers for success in school and life.
The Born to Read committee understands that there are parents in our community who, for whatever reason, do not read to their children and the research is clear. Dr. Helene Deacon, Professor from Dalhousie University states that "skill in reading is even more essential than ever before. Engaging in our simplest social conventions through to high level policy engagement in writing, places skill in reading at the heart of full social and democratic participation'. Also, Dr. Navsaria, Medical Director of the Wisconsin Chapter of Reach Out and Read encourages the gifting of books and states " by encouraging parents to read early and often they may help to reduce the academic disparity between wealthier and low-income children as well as between racial groups." He explains the economic benefits, " low literacy is associated with chronic illness, low physical and mental health status and high rates of acute health service use."
A recent estimate suggests that a 1% increase in adult literacy could boost Canada's economy by about $67 billion.
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What a terrific way to introduce the importance of books and reading to young moms and babies. This is a wonderful literacy program.
Born To Read is an amazing family initiative that fosters early literacy skills and a lifelong love of reading. New parents are thrilled to receive new books.
Born to Read is an amazing family initiative that fosters early literacy skills and a lifelong love of reading. New parents are thrilled to receive new books.
Born to Read is an amazing family initiative that fosters early literacy skills and a lifelong love of reading. New parents are thrilled to receive new books.
The Born to Read Program is an excellent initiative that provides new parents with free books, a special bag, along with literacy and local library resources.
Early reading exposure sets a foundation for future success and a thirst for knowledge. I whole heartedly support this initiative.