EDUCATION IS FUNDAMENTAL

It is important that we don't take the importance of reading to babies for granted. Just because we may come from families who value reading, we should not assume that everyone does. We need to be aware of the fact that in some families they are dealing with issues of illiteracy (the idea of reading aloud might be stressful), poverty (books are on the bottom of the shopping list, if at all), and language barriers (none of the board books are in their mother tongue). What is seen as a relaxing and loving activity for some families may actually be stressful or painful to others. With this in mind, the authors of From Crib to School compiled a list of what we, as literacy stakeholders, should talk to caregivers about. Below is an appended version of that list.

The authors encourage us to talk with primary caregivers about . . .

• The fact that a perfect reading isn't important (it's the voice with the cuddle that counts.
• The need for closeness between the reader, child and book.
• Remember that the reader is part of the story.
• Encourage children who make story noises in imitation of the sounds of a story.

Question
(1) Do you believe that our library and school systems are doing an adequate job of breaking down barriers to allow all families, regardless of economic status or cultural background, access to resources needed to encourage reading at home?