Recent research in early brain development suggests that parents should read and talk to their infants as soon as they are born (if not sooner!). Ninety percent of the baby’s brain growth occurs from zero to five years of age. During this time, neurons connect to other neurons forming an intricate network of neural pathways. The connections that are created and reinforced at this early age lay the groundwork for future learning.

Through the MAKE WAY FOR BOOKS for Babies Program, early literacy kits are assembled for new parents who are at-risk of not being able to provide an adequate beginning in life for their babies. Each kit contains a board book, a “Read to Me” bib, and a calendar that offers simple monthly tips on fostering language and early literacy.

These materials are given to Healthy Families personnel to distribute to their clients. MAKE WAY FOR BOOKS staff conducts training workshops for the Healthy Families specialists on how to support new parents in their role as their baby’s first teacher. In 2007 we distributed over 900 literacy kits.

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MAKE WAY FOR BOOKS For Babies is possible through the generous support of...