October 2014 - Studies show children introduced to books early in life have a better chance of graduating from high school. Moreover, students who don’t read at age level are more likely to enter the juvenile and adult court systems. “Aside from the critical bonding that takes place when a parent reads to a child,” says Jennifer Biehler, Futures’ director of Head Start, “early literacy plays a huge role in a child’s ability to finish school, gain employment and contribute to society in a positive way.”

Futures programs, which serve children ages 0-5, have strengthened their relationship with the Wellington Public Library to promote literacy program-wide. “We’ve had family literacy events at the library and are piloting a new mobile library in the preschool which gives preschoolers the opportunity to check out library books right in their classroom,” says Melissa Hurley, Futures’ family engagement coordinator. “In addition we’ve been inviting community members to come read to preschoolers.”

“Early literacy overall is the foundation of all learning,” says Biehler.