I came across this research report recently. It is still shocking to me that despite all the research available that there is a lack of awareness that reading to children and spending time on literacy activities between 3 – 5 years old is vital for their future success. 

 

According to the survey 95% of Americans consider early childhood literacy an important problem, but they do not know that reading to children between the ages of 3-5 has long-term consequences for a child’s academic achievement and life-long success.

 

Read the full press release here:

 

Other findings in the study:

 

75% of the population is completely unaware that nearly 61% of low-income

families do not have any age appropriate books in their homes.

63% did not know that poverty is the best predictor of whether or not a child

will achieve in school.

53% are unaware that nearly one-half of children from low-income

communities start first grade up to two years behind their peers.

 

Research proves that children who enter kindergarten behind their peers will most likely never catch up and are three to four times more likely to drop out in later years. However, this new survey data shows that only 18% of Americans know that children who lack early literacy skills are less likely to succeed as adults.

 

The facts are staring us in the face. We need to read to our children. We need to make it part of their everyday routine to give them the best start we can.  Find different formats to expose children to reading as much as you can. Make it a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone. Read, read and then read some more!