argeting under-privileged children from ages 6 months to 5 years, the Reach out and Read program involves reading aloud in the clinic, teaching parents the value of books, and giving books to children. Trained volunteers read to children and their siblings in the waiting room, modeling techniques for parents. During pediatric appointments, doctors use books to assess the child’s development and to show parents the importance of early reading. At each visit the child is given a culturally and age appropriate book to take home—over time children in the family accumulate a library of books to read and share. Designed by pediatricians and educators to combat illiteracy in impoverished communities, book distribution serves as an incentive for regular well-child visits and immunizations, and will teach chronically ill children and their parents how to share an enjoyable and educational activity. At San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center (SFGH), 12,000 books are distributed during regular check-ups annually, to educate parents about the importance of reading aloud to their children.
