Education is not just about learning new information.  While learning academic course content in science, geography, social studies, and mathematics is of great importance, the cognitive development of children is of far greater value. Numerous studies have shown that reading is a great tool to promote cognitive development and learning. Research also suggests that learning to read actually improves the way the brain functions.

Children who struggle to read tend to fall behind academically. They find it hard to grasp complex written concepts and are unable to keep up with classwork requirements. The ability to read and comprehend material allows them to self-learn and explore new topics. In addition, reading contributes greatly to a child’s imagination. Being exposed to different cultures and ideas, a well-read child tends to have a broader worldview. Natural readers also tend to be more confident and better communicators.

The Let's READ programme encourages children to foster a love for books and reading for pleasure. Through this programme, we will set up a mini library in each class from Std. 1 to 10. Each library comprises of 130 books which are curated keeping in mind the reading abilities and language preferences of the children. The books are carefully selected to be culturally relevant to the children while also being well written and beautifully illustrated. In addition, each child will be gifted a set of 5 books each. For many children, these will be the first set of books they own. The children will be encouraged to read and exchange the books with their friends.

Reading journals will be distributed and children will be shown how to record their wish list of books and reviews of books they have read. We will also conduct a series of book reading sessions by children’s book authors and other professionals. Through animated readings, they will make the books come alive and intrigue the children to want to read more. Teachers of each class will also be trained in assisted reading techniques.