Reach Out and Read (ROR) is a program that promotes early literacy by bringing new books and advice about the importance of reading aloud into the pediatric exam room. Doctors give new books to children at each well child visit from 6 months of age to 5 years, and accompany these books with developmentally appropriate advice to parents about reading with their child. The ROR program model is based on research that shows a connection between the frequency of sharing books with babies, toddlers and young children and enhanced language development.

Since 1997, ROR pediatricians in Vermont have been prescribing books and reading aloud for their young patients, with a special focus on children growing up in poverty. First established in Vermont at University Pediatrics and the Burlington Community Health Center, ROR trained doctors and nurses are currently promoting pediatric literacy at more than 30 hospitals, health centers and private pediatric practices throughout the state.  As of January 1, 2001, the Reach Out and Read Vermont Coalition became part of the American Academy of Pediatrics -Vermont Chapter (AAP-VT), having been previously administered by the Vermont Center for the Book.  A national, non-profit literacy organization founded in 1989, Reach Out and Read is affiliated with the Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine.

Advisory Board Members

Andrea Green, MD
Chair
Medical Director, Reach Out and Read Vermont
University Pediatrics
Burlington, VT

Elizabeth Bluemle
Flying Pig Bookstore
Shelburne, VT

Abigail Foulk
Charlotte, VT

Ann Goring, MD
Winooski Family Center

Martha Small
Shelburne, VT

Suzy Tenenbaum
South Burlington, VT

Our Mission

Reach Out and Read (ROR) makes literacy promotion a standard part of pediatric primary care, so that children grow up with books and a love of reading.  Reach Out and Read trains doctors and nurses about the importance of reading aloud and to give books to children at pediatric checkups from six months to five years, with a special emphasis on children growing up in poverty.  Building upon the unique relationship between parents and medical providers, Reach Out and Read helps families encourage early literacy skills so children enter school prepared for success in reading.

Contact Us

Vermont Coalition

77 Green Hills Drive

Shelburne, VT 05482

(802)985-2277

laureyellen@gmail.com

National Center

56 Roland Street

Suite 100D

Boston, MA 02129-1243

(617)455-0600

info@reachoutandread.org