Reach Out and Read Pediatric Literacy Program
~Reading is good medicine~

Mother and child learn that reading is good medicine from the medical provider. During well child exams, young children get a new book and the parent gets a prescription to read to the child every day. What is Reach Out and Read? Reach Out and Read (ROR), a national pediatric literacy program operating in all 50 states, provides new culturally and developmentally appropriate children's books during early well-child checkup visits. When these visits occur between the ages of six months and five years, the doctor uses a favorite children’s book to help evaluate literacy development--making it as important as immunizations and physical growth. A new book is given to the child along with a written prescription to the parent, which includes instructions on reading aloud to the child everyday. By the time the child starts school, he or she will have a small library of books and a real appreciation for reading—an important first step in succeeding in school and later in life. More information about the program is available through the National Reach Out and Read Center. The CHC ROR program distributes approximately 4,000 new children's books annually during well child visits. In addition, 12,000 gently used books are given out annually. BookSpring (formerly known as Capital Area Reach Out and Read, Inc.), a private, nonprofit organization that promotes ROR programs, serves as the program's sponsor. To donate gently used children's books or book purchasing funds, please contact the program sponsor.