Encouraging Early Literacy: Books for Babies
When it comes to reading to children, it's never too early to start. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends pediatricians “use a robust spectrum of options to support and promote literacy.”
CHOP's Books for Babies program is designed to begin a child's journey to literacy. “We know that reading with young children results in improved language skills in toddlers and improves school readiness,” says Shelia Knerr, MD, a CHOP Pediatric Hospitalist who led the creation of the program. Learn More
It's in the bag!
Through the Books for Babies program, parents of newborns receive a gift bag that includes a board book, a bookmark, an application for a library card at their local library, and information on the well-established benefits of reading to their newborn.
This was an incredible journey that began, grew and continues to prosper due to the ongoing support of the CHOP Community Impact department, the CHOP grants programs, and the commitment of the whole CHOP enterprise to help their employees support children and families in their communities.
Sheila Knerr, MD, Books for Babies Founder
Dr. Knerr recently retired from her role as a CHOP Pediatric Hospitalist and passed the torch of Books for Babies leadership to Koryse Woodrooffe Ekouevi, MD, a CHOP neonatologist at Grand View Health, pictured left.
Learn more about CHOP's literacy programs
