Programs

As children become interested in books they need to have books available for essential practice and learning. Indeed, studies have shown that when there is a paucity of books in the home, children do not read. To ensure that children have books to read, the Literacy Initiative distributes approximately 6,000 books a year in the following venues: Mothers on the maternity ward at The Cambridge Hospital receive a new board book for their infants. All Cambridge babies receive a Born to Read packet when they turn three months old. Inside a canvas bags are three wonderful new board books, a coupon for a fourth book redeemable at the Cambridge Public Library, and a pamphlet highlighting "why" and "how" parents and caregivers should read to infants. Youngsters who attend Agenda for Children events receive high quality, age-appropriate new books. Children are also given take-home cards that help them develop an awareness of the sounds in the English language. Families receive engaging fiction and non-fiction books for their children when they visit the Agenda for Children table at citywide fairs. Books, puppets, felt boards, and other literacy materials are also distributed to early care and education providers attending professional development workshops. Finally, the Literacy Initiative works closely with the Cambridge Public Library to encourage families to visit their neighborhood libraries.