Screens are an ever-increasing part of our lives and an easy way to keep children entertained. While our digital world is expanding, so is our understanding that shared reading is far more beneficial for children than screens. Technology, no matter how sophisticated, cannot replicate the reciprocal exchange of human relationships that are the foundation for healthy brain development and strong early relationships.   We can see the power […]

How do you make reading a part of a daily routine when your little one is always on the move? When we picture reading to children, we might picture our little ones snuggled in our lap quietly listening to the soothing sound of our voice, but we all know life with toddlers is hardly quiet. Their […]

It’s that time of year, when we start thinking about preparing children for starting school. Many caregivers are wondering how they can help their children enter kindergarten with the tools they need to be successful. When should we be thinking about school readiness? Everything that children need to prepare for school, they begin learning from […]

This winter and spring, we had the opportunity to host an intern from Rhode Island College. Iliany Garcia is completing her degree in Early Childhood Education at Rhode Island College, and she selected Reach Out and Read RI for her Community Programs Internship. Iliany came to us with a depth of experience in early literacy. […]

If you are an adult caring for a young child, chances are there is a book or two or three you can recite without looking at the words. And perhaps your child can do the same. Why do children ask for the same book again and again? And should we keep reading?  Yes, repetition is […]

There are many books about going back to school that can help children and families prepare for this big transition. Books can spark questions and conversations that can ease worries and build confidence. Children and families also have unique experiences and challenges when it comes to transitioning to school and they may not find them […]