Since 1990 Page Ahead has provided new books and reading activities that empower at-risk children. The organization was initially founded by members of the Seattle Chamber of Commerce’s “Leadership Tomorrow” program, and went by the name “Books for Kids.” Since then, the organization has donated more than 2 million new books for children to use through collaborations with schools, social service agencies, preschools and early childhood centers across Washington State.
Page Ahead is motivated by the idea that being read to as a child is the foremost predictor of academic success growing up. A child that lacks early exposure to reading often suffers from low self-esteem, struggles academically and is at higher risk for substance abuse and delinquency. Children with literacy problems often come from low-income families, with no books in their home, and have caregivers that do not understand the importance of reading aloud to children to help develop their language and reading skills. At ESHC we have been a proud supporters of their efforts by hosting book drives and assisting in their office organizing books that will go out into the community. Our speech team is dedicated to increasing literacy throughout the community, and knows the importance of organizations such as Page Ahead.
If you are at all concerned about your child’s literacy, please contact one of our offices to set up a speech evaluation. Our literacy program is geared to provide the building blocks for successful literacy development.