Reading to children more than once a day has a substantial positive impact on their future academic skills. (National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth, Statistics Canada, 1996-1997)
Reading is the foundation to lifelong learning.
Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body. ~ Joseph Addison ~
Reading is a basic tool in the living of a good life. ~ Mortimer J. Adler ~
Children are made readers on the laps of their parents.(1994) ~ Emilie Buchwald ~
Reading aloud with children is known to be the single most important activity for building the knowledge and skills they will eventually require for learning to read." — Marilyn Jager Adams
A key to improving our children’s’ reading ability is to make reading a priority in our homes and schools.
The ability to read, and read well, has a direct correlation to future life successes.
Literacy levels affect a person’s employment and income, health, self-confidence, parenting skills and participation in community life.
Early exposure to books can instill a love of learning and a desire to understand our world better.
Creativity and imagination are sparked by early reading habits.
By November 2006 the Rotary Read a Long Program has read to over 5,000 children.
By November 2006 The Rotary Read a Long Program has donated over $60,000 worth of books to school libraries.
By November 2006 Over 200 Rotarians and community leaders have read in the Program.
By November 2006 over 6000 books have been donated to school libraries.
By June 2007 the Rotary Read a Long Program will be available across the province.
In April 2008 the Read-A-Long program has reached 10,000 children and donated $120,000.00 in books to the schools
By April 2008 the Read-A-Long program has spread into Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island
