The Statistic Brain Research Institute states that 14% of adults in the United States have a reading level below the basics. This translates to 32,000,000 people who are considered unable to read. Twenty-nine percent have only a basic level of reading. The World Literacy Foundation’s August 24, 2015 report, The Economic & Social Cost of Illiteracy, states that “illiterate people earn 30% – 42% less than their literate counterparts” because they lack the skills to advance their education.

 

According to The Children’s Book Review website, exposure to reading at a young age increases a person’s literacy. However, increased literacy is not the only benefit of reading.

Reading stories to children helps them develop language and thinking skills. Stories help children cope with their feelings and help them develop confidence. The Women’s and Children’s Health Network offers a great health topics page that gives advice and tips about reading for parents with young children. The Health Fitness Revolution’s Top 10 Health Benefits of Reading include stimulating the mind, improving memory and concentration, and reducing stress.

When a child is exposed to reading early in life instills a love for reading that could last a lifetime.

Finding time to promote reading can be a challenge, however, there are options.

The Pulaski County Public Library in Winamac, Indiana offers many events that promote reading, including a Story Time every Saturday at 2:00 p.m.

The Indianapolis Public Library All Year Reading Programs include Wrestle Mania Reading Challenge and World Read Aloud Day.

More information about reading programs can be found by contacting your local library, school library, or your child’s teachers.