During this difficult time Reach Out & Read Illinois aims to support our pediatricians, families and children.
Access COVID-19 resources from our partners, stories from our clinics and participate in positive initiatives.
WHAT WE DO
Reach Out & Read Illinois prepares low-income children for kindergarten by incorporating books into pediatric visits from six months to five years, connecting families to neighborhood resources and encouraging families to read together.
Reach Out & Read Illinois builds on the relationship between parents and healthcare providers. Books are an important part of early learning and brain development, and Reach Out & Read Illinois distributes early learning resources and over 142,00 books to families every year. Yet, this is only a fraction of those that need support.
Book Diversity
Illinois is a state rich in diversity, especially in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. But in this deeply varied state, many children have a hard time seeing themselves and children of varied cultures reflected in the books read to them and scattered about in their homes.
Children’s books help shape what children think about themselves, their peers, and the world around them. What children see – and do not see – in books can have a lasting impression on their values, attitudes, and actions.
Learn more about why Book Diversity is important; how to enhance the diversity of your clinic library, and access Book Diversity resources.
Loyola University Medical Center
During the pandemic, the joy I’ve seen from both children and their parents of receiving a book at their well child visit has been amazing. During this time of isolation this simple act has truly reminded some of the parents that they are not alone during the pandemic and that people are still looking towards a future for their children.
Friend Health Center
This absolutely made my day – a 19 month old climbed off her mom’s lap and ran to me to see her new Reach Out & Read book and read it to me!