Importance of Reading in Early Childhood In honor of World Book Day, it’s never been a better time to discuss the importance of reading in early childhood. Dr. Faustino Bernadett recognized this importance early on and subsequently dedicated his life to fostering a love of reading in small children. But more on that later! First, more facts about the importance of early exposure to reading: According to Raising Readers:
Children who are introduced to reading in their early years tend to start reading earlier and excelling in school compared with children who have no exposure to language and books at a young age. Reading, rhyming, singing, and talking from the time of birth has been found to profoundly influence literacy and language development, forming the foundations for all other learning. One in three American children start kindergarten without the skills needed to learn to read. Developing early literacy skills makes it easier for children to learn to read. Kids who start school with these skills carry a benefit with them throughout their school years.
Early reading has a host of other benefits, proven to improve academic performance, improve children’s grasp of English and other languages, and improve children's receptive language skills. How Dr. Faustino Bernadett Fosters a Love of Reading
Dr. Faustino Bernadett and his wife Dr. Martha Molina Bernadett, M.D., MBA, value the importance of literacy – especially when fostered from a very young age. That’s part of the reason why they founded The Molina Foundation in 2004. She is the President and CEO, and he is Vice President and Treasurer, both leading this national nonprofit organization designed to reduce disparities in access to education and health. The Molina Foundation works with more than 2,500 organizations and schools, and in its life span has donated more than 5.5 million books. It also hosts workshops and programs for educators and families within schools and community-based organizations. Partnering with preschool programs, clinics, churches, schools, family service organizations, and civic organizations that serve low-income and at-risk