Hi Guys

Literacy begins long before a child steps into the classroom. It encompasses the groundwork for lifelong learning and academic success from birth to age five. In this edition of our newsletter, we will dive into the critical role that early literacy plays in shaping children's development, language skills, and future academic achievements.

Starting on Day one

When a baby is born, their brain starts taking in what they see and hear instantly, causing the rapid formation of synapses. So when someone is teaching a baby to say “mama” or “dada,” the baby starts to understand how to form those words, leading them to repeat them later on. This is why raising children in an educationally rich environment is crucial for children to start their literacy journey at the very beginning. Reading to young children is also one of the best ways to jump-start literacy in a child's education early on.

Empowering Parents as First Teachers

I truly believe education starts at home. Children learn at home by interacting with their parents and their environment. Because a child starts learning at home, it is imperative that a parent nurtures and elevates that learning so that they will be prepared for daycare or Pre-K. A parent could teach their child at home by introducing their babies to different letters, sounds, and colors frequently. For bigger kids, a parent could provide their kids with many resources or even help with homework. Unfortunately, some parents believe it is solely the teacher's responsibility to teach their child, and that is why when kids go home, they begin to lose the connection with education at school because that connection is not being fostered at home.

The Benefits of Early Childhood Literacy

Investing in childhood literacy is not only morally important but also a strategic move to help prepare children for academic success in the future. According to makewayforbooks.org , “research shows that when children are reached with high-quality early learning experiences, they are 40% less likely to fall behind in school.” Teaching your child reading and writing very early on will allow your child to be opened up to more advanced things in school. By doing that, a parent propels their child toward all aspects of academic success.

As we wrap up this edition of Read & Lead, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your dedication to nurturing children's literacy skills worldwide.

Together, we're igniting a love for reading and writing in young minds everywhere. Every story shared, every book read, and every word written is a step towards a brighter future for all children.

Thank you for being part of this journey to empower the next generation of leaders and learners. Let's continue to make a difference, one page at a time.

Warm Regards,

Jahiem Wilcher