Why It Matters
Literacy is the foundation of everything.
Reach Out and Read of Greater New York trains pediatricians to prescribe books and reading aloud at every well-child visit from birth to age 5. Every child in New York City deserves a fair start — and the City Budget is where Council Members can translate that commitment into real funding lines.
Starts at birth
Reading aloud from infancy builds vocabulary, listening skills, and a lifelong love of books — years before formal schooling begins.
Doctor-delivered
Pediatricians are trusted voices. When they hand a family a book and guidance at check-ups, parents listen — and children thrive.
Increased Reading
Families are 2.5x more likely to read together when they attend Reach Out and Read clinics.
Proven ROI
Early literacy investment reduces special education costs, grade repetition, and juvenile justice involvement. The payoff for taxpayers is enormous.