Catch the Reading Bug
Our Catch the Reading Bug program was designed to not only promote literacy, but to trigger a dialogue between patients, families and staff, about the joys of reading.
The program works in conjuction with other hospital literacy programs, like Project Open Book and Reach Out and Read, in raising awareness, sponsoring book drives and giveaways, and working to create a culture of reading within the hospital.
The importance of reading
It is estimated that 40 million Americans lack basic literacy skills, and can do little more than sign their names. Low functional literacy is realted to a host of disadvantages including an increased rate of unemployment and lower wages. Furthermore, studies have shown that young people whose reading level falls within the bottom 20 percent are nine times more likely to drop out of school and eight times more likely to become mothers out of wedlock.
Research has shown that children who are regularly read to are more likely to be prepared for the tasks they will face when they get to school. Aside from expanding their vocabulary and their knowledge of letters and sounds, the love of books that comes from spending time reading on their parents' lap is what gives children the ultimate motivation to learn to read on their own.
Children's Memorial is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of reading, and preparing children for the challenges that await them in adulthood. Parents need to be aware of how important sharing books with their child can be.
Bedtime stories
Each night, patients can tune into Children's Memorial's Skylight TV for to watch our Bed-time Stories segment. The program feature celebrities, doctors and staff reading from beloved children's books. Most recently, several members of the Chicago Cubs stopped by to read from their favorite children's books.