Read to Succeed
Developed by the National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI), the Read to Succeed program is designed to promote early literacy and language development by supporting families with children between birth and eight years old to establish home libraries with culturally responsive and developmentally
appropriate children’s books and providing them with supplementary resources through our National Village Network, including BCDI-GTB. With support from NBCDI and local partners, BCDI-GTB offers young children and their families with children’s books featuring children of color and their families, designed to foster early literacy skills and establish at-home libraries.
BCDI-Greater Tampa Bay
What do we do?
Promoting early literacy and language development is essential for every child’s future success. One of the best ways to do this is by providing families and early education programs with access to culturally relevant and developmentally appropriate books. When children see themselves and their families represented in the stories they read, it helps them feel valued and understood. These books can spark their imagination, promote a love for reading, and encourage them to explore their own identities. By ensuring that stories reflect diverse cultures and experiences, we nurture a sense of belonging in young readers, which is foundational for their emotional and intellectual growth. Together, let’s encourage families to read alongside their children, making storytime a cherished bonding experience that promotes learning and connection.
In addition to books, supplementary resources play a vital role in enriching early literacy. Community programs can offer workshops or story sessions that introduce families to various literacy activities. These activities can include vocabulary games, storytelling techniques, and interactive reading strategies. The goal is to create engaging learning environments where parents feel empowered to support their child’s language development. When families are equipped with simple tools and ideas, they can turn everyday moments into valuable learning experiences. By working together as a community to share knowledge and resources, we help ensure that every child has the chance to thrive. Let’s strive to make reading a joyful and inclusive adventure that encourages creativity and curiosity in our little ones.
Finally, we must emphasize the importance of collaboration between families and early education programs. When schools and parents work together, children benefit tremendously. Schools can offer guidance on which books and resources are best for different ages and interests. Involving families in decision-making encourages them to take an active role in their child’s literacy journey. By hosting family reading nights or book fairs featuring diverse literature, communities can foster a love for reading that lasts a lifetime. Everyone deserves the opportunity to discover the magic of books, and by supporting each other, we can make this a reality. Let’s champion early literacy by opening doors to a world of stories, imagination, and endless possibilities for children