By The Republican Editorials

March 2, 2021

One in four children grow up without learning how to read, and 65% of America’s fourth- grade students do not read at a proficient level, according to the Literacy Project Foundation. The foundation also finds that 61% of low-income families have no books in their homes for children. As we spend today acknowledging Read Across America Day – the birthday of Dr. Seuss, the pen name of Theodor Seuss “Ted” Geisel – acknowledging and acting on the importance of getting an early start is key to success down the road.

Organizations such as Springfield’s “Reading Success by 4th Grade” have the critical mission of fostering early literacy skills to ensure kids learn the foundational skills leading to graduation. This reading proficiency initiative is made up of early childhood educators, businesses, legislators and community organizations, the Springfield Public Schools as well as medical and behavioral health providers.

Launched in 2009, the program is an initiative of the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation and exemplifies the collaborative spirit that is necessary within the community to make a difference in reaching literacy gains. In an interview after its first Early Literacy Summit in 2019, program manager Chrissy Howard said, “What we did was bring folks together from across the city and the state to maintain momentum and keep a sense of urgency around early literacy issues. We had a lot come out of that summit in terms of thinking strategically, but also thinking broadly about literacy in the city.”

According to researchers, 80% of a child’s brain is formed during their first three years. And engaging children by reading with them can increase language development and assist in cognitive development. Reading aloud to a child has real benefits, and the books of Dr. Seuss are well-suited for this exercise.

Reading Across America is a valuable reminder on the importance of a strong focus on reading at an early age and programs such as Reading Success by 4th Grade offers the community support and commitment that will drive action. Add the prose and talent of Dr. Suess and you have a formula providing students, teachers and parents with the tools they need to drive a positive change in reading proficiency.

Today, and every day, we should recognize the importance of literacy in our lives. So pick up a book and read to your child, keep books around the house, and make reading a powerful, consistent practice.

This editorial also appeared in the March 2, 2021 edition of The Republican. Read the article on MassLive here.