MONROE, Mich. – Reach Out and Read Michigan aims to expose children to books and reading starting from birth.
The program strengthens the bond between parent and child while improving language and listening skills.
Ron Hilliard visited ProMedica Physicians Pediatrics in Monroe to see how the program supports families from day one.
Doctors spend time with parents and their children, showing the benefits of reading aloud together. Dr. Katie Gandert emphasized the importance of sharing books with children.
She asked a young patient, “What letter does the duck start with?” The child responded, “D, good job.”
Dr. Gandert explained, “In our clinic, children get a book at their well-child checks from birth until the age of five.”
ProMedica Physicians Monroe Pediatrics partners with Reach Out and Read Michigan to provide books and literacy guidance during well-child visits.
The program trains doctors to counsel families on using books to support not only literacy but also gross and fine motor skills.
Dr. Gandert noted, “We help kids who may learn differently or have problems with their hearing or vision. One question I get a lot is about children with ADHD who can’t sit still. The program has specific recommendations for that, too.”
Reading books to infants is especially helpful.
Dr. Gandert shared a book called “Tummy Time,” which parents can use during tummy time to build literacy and motor skills.
During a visit with baby Lucy, Dr. Gandert demonstrated how to place a book in front of her while lying her on her belly.
“In addition to helping build her literacy skills, turning pages and looking at pictures gets her used to books,” Dr. Gandert said.
She added, “(Babies) can practice grabbing the book, which is good for their fine motor skills. Sometimes babies even eat the book, and we’re okay with that too, because if you can eat a book, you can need a cracker usually.”
Research shows that 80% of a child’s brain is formed within the first 1,000 days. Reading early and often improves language and has lasting benefits.
Dr. Gandert said, “Parents who read more to their kids tolerate stress a little better. It’s really important for bonding. For busy parents, it forces you to slow down, put your kid in your lap, snuggle up, and fully focus on them.”