As an educator, I am all too aware of the correlation between literacy and poverty. I have taught many children over the years who have not had the opportunity to develop and flourish within their education experience as a result of not being read to as children. The standards children are expected to learn continue to increase with difficulty with each and every grade. If a child does not have the basics down pat at each grade level, how are they going to move to next steps in their learning? Especially, if they do not have the support of parents at home?
I strongly suggest reading with your children from the time they are born. Children learn language from the adults who shape their worldview, if you want to develop your vocabulary continue to learn. Also, be sure to read books, newspapers, magazines, ebooks, etc in front our your children because as they see you’re a reader, they too will want to read and learn. It is also of utmost importance to develop a home reading program with your children to foster a love of learning and build their literacy throughout the foundation of their developmental years. I cannot stress enough how important is it to read to children and support their learning to see them build their confidence and have an enjoyable educational experience.
