According to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Council on Early Childhood, “reading with children in their… preschool years is associated with higher language skills at school entry and with childhood literacy acquisition." CRB uses evidence-based, interactive techniques to address literacy foundations in several areas.
Each week focuses on a specific literacy foundation. Throughout the program, we hone skills such as oral language, narrative skills, vocabulary, and print motivation.
When working virtually or during the school year, we utilize award-winning digital literacy-platform BookNook, which allows us to continually individualize lessons for our students.
In addition to social-emotional learning focused on communication and connection skills, we provide our Youth Mentors with the tools and foundations of early childhood learning so that they can be thoughtful, effective mentors. Readiness involves a half-day training, pre-training before each program session, and a debrief at the end of each program session.
CRB partners with Tandem to provide our Youth Mentors with comprehensive training on how early learners think and develop.
During a normal year, we keep our students connected and supported through Family Reading Nights. Family Reading Nights bring together families to share in the love of reading. We host these family events throughout the year in partnership with Oakland’s childhood development centers and Tandem, Partners in Early Learning. The reading nights engage whole families, with literacy stations run by our Youth Mentors, parent workshops to promote reading at home, and local author signings and book giveaways for each family and teacher who attends. The fun and activity-filled evenings bring families together to experience the impact reading in the home has on their children.
