Reach out and read: 78th MDG promotes childhood literacy Published Sept. 16, 2011 By Jenny Gordon 78th Air Base Wing Public Affairs ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- When was the last time you read a book out loud to your infant or toddler? If it wasn't at the doctor's office, parents will be pleased to know that checkups at the base medical clinic now include a special surprise for little ones. Through the national Reach Out and Read program, the 78th Medical Group is now providing an age-appropriate new book to every child up to age 5 who visits the clinic for a wellness visit. Wellness visits are conducted for children 6-, 9-, 12- and 18-months old. They are also scheduled for 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-year olds. The program began in August, with the pediatric clinic receiving its first shipment of books, and giving out an average of 12 books a day. Robins became the 50th military installation to begin a Reach Out and Read campaign. While children are examined, healthcare providers can also teach how to use the books to ensure developmental milestones, as well as encourage parents to read to children at home. "We are in a good position to promote literacy. It's really a tool for us in our exam, which is nice," said Capt. (Dr.) Curtis McDonald, 78th MDG pediatric medical director. "It's something we can do to promote early education." By 9-months old, children can hold a book, and by 12 months they can turn the pages of cardboard books, said McDonald. As children get older, they can identify objects and colors in books, and by 2 or 3, are able to recognize letters and words. These things can be accomplished when a parent takes the time to share the importance of reading. McDonald continued with citing studies that have shown early reading promotes increased literacy rates in children, higher test scores, and better spelling and vocabulary. To be consistent with the reading program's message, the clinic has also redecorated its waiting area to promote a literacy-rich environment. Televisions have been removed, and children now have a reading station with a bookshelf, tables, and reading rugs and pillows. Reach Out and Read began in 1989 when two Boston pediatricians and several early childhood educators got together to introduce the literacy model at Boston Medical Center. One thousand books were originally distributed. As of this past April, there were 4,688 programs in the U.S., with 6.4 million books distributed to 3.9 million children. Reach Out and Read has also pledged to double the number of its military sites by 2013, according to its website. It has partnered with Joining Forces, a White House initiative which supports and honors America's service members and their families. The 78th MDG is also reaching out to Team Robins to bring gently-used books for children under age six to its collection bins, located at the medical clinic, Youth Center and the library in Bldg. 905. These books will be given to every child who visits the pediatric clinic, as well as accompanying siblings, whether for a well or sick visit.