In Fall 2016, this collaborative approach to improving school readiness was implemented by Family Health Center with funding provided by Junior League of Waco. Reach Out & Read utilizes doctors and nurses to help parents understand the importance of reading with their children. At a child’s well visit, the medical staff gives the parent a bilingual, culturally-sensitive book and emphasize the importance of reading. Research has shown that, across economic, ethnic, and geographic lines, the program significantly impacts parental behavior and attitudes toward reading aloud, and young children who participate in the program achieve higher language scores.

Through Reach Out and Read, Family Health Center patients six months to five years of age will receive an age-appropriate book during his or her well-child exam. Family Health Center providers will talk with parents about the importance of reading and encourage the family to read together. Since implementation, providers have shared that books are easily incorporated in the well-child exam and families are excited to receive a brand new book.

Since implementation, more than 2,450 books have been distributed to families that receive healthcare from 12 Family Health Center clinics. In efforts fulfill the Reach Out and Read model, Baylor University student volunteers read to children waiting for their appointment during peak hours.