Day 143: Get Caught Reading Month

Get Caught Reading is a nationwide public service campaign launched by the Association of American Publishers to remind people of all ages how much fun it is to read. May is officially Get Caught Reading Month, but the celebration lasts throughout the year.

Research shows that the development of literacy skills through early experiences with books and stories is critically linked to a child's success in learning to read and overall success in school, yet fewer than half of young children in the U.S. are read to daily. Research shows that children who aren't fluent readers by the end of third grade may never catch up to their peers. Early reading experiences are recognized as being of such importance that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends pediatricians prescribe reading activities along with other instructions given to parents at well-child visits.

Get Caught Reading Month is a terrific opportunity to give thought to the role of books and literacy in your child's life.

Room to Read believes that world change starts with educated children. They envision a world in which all children can pursue a quality education that enables them to reach their full potential and contribute to their community and the world.

Room to Read seeks to transform the lives of millions of children in developing countries by focusing on literacy and gender equality in education. Working in collaboration with local communities, partner organizations and governments, Room to Read develops literacy skills and a habit of reading among primary school children. They also support girls to complete secondary school with the relevant life skills to succeed in school and beyond.

To increase the likelihood for success and long-term sustainability, Room to Read enlists community involvement and co-investment through their Challenge Grant model. Villages often raise a significant portion of the overall expenditure in the form of dedicated space, labor, materials and/or small amounts of cash. These challenge grants act as catalysts for community building while also maximizing the local participation and expertise brought to their programs.

Room to Read hires local staff, who are personally vested in their nation's educational progress and they empower them to make key programmatic decisions within their country. They are already familiar with the language, conditions, customs and governments and understand the specific needs of the educational system.

Donation $5

To support Room to Read, please visit:   http://www.roomtoread.org/