About Us
Reach Out and Read is an evidence-based nonprofit organization of medical providers who promote early literacy and school readiness in pediatric exam rooms nationwide by integrating children's books and advice to parents about the importance of reading aloud into well-child visits.
Reach Out and Read builds on the unique relationship between parents and medical providers to develop critical early reading skills in children, beginning in infancy. As recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Reach Out and Read incorporates early literacy into pediatric practice, equipping parents with tools and knowledge to ensure that their children are prepared to learn when they start school.
Reach Out and Read (ROR) serves more than 4 million children and their families annually. ROR families read together more often, and their children enter kindergarten with larger vocabularies and stronger language skills. During the preschool years, children served by Reach Out and Read score three to six months ahead of their non-Reach Out and Read peers on vocabulary tests. These early foundational language skills help start children on a path of success when they enter school.
Here at Duke Pediatrics, our physicians and nurses are trained in early literacy development to encourage families to read aloud to their young children every day. We start introducing developmentally and culturally appropriate books at well child visits starting at the age of 6 months through 5 years. Please consider donating to this worthy cause so that we can continue to empower our families and children!
