There is a 32 million word gap between children from professional families and from families who live check to check.  The power of talk can decrease that gap.  Check out "The Thirty Million Word Project" - LINK.  These are many of the strategies that we are using in our playgroups.

Read Aloud 15 minutes is a national campaing to get families to read to their children from birth.  It has tons of research and resources on the importance of reading.  We use many of the handouts for our program. They feel that reading aloud is the "single most important activity" you can do for your child.  LINK

Scholastic is an international advocate for literacy.  They publish the "Kids and Family Reading Report" It has research statistics and trends in reading for kids and their families.  LINK

Zero to Three: Early Connections Last a Lifetime is a national organization dedicated to our little learners.  They have information on early development and well-being, early learning, parenting and advocacy sections on their websites.  Zero to Three has made some excellent videos about reading and playing with your child. LINK

Head Start is a national organization servicing students in Rock and Walworth counties. They have strong programs for parents and for children.  They are dedicated to providing comprehensive family services.LINK