Publication:

Impact of a clinic based literacy intervention Reach Out and Read (ROR) modelled program on preschool children in India

Background Pediatricians play an important role in linking literacy with primary health care services. The aim of the study was to establish the feasibility and applicability of “Reach out and Read (ROR) - a clinic based literacy programs” in Indian scenario.

Methods Prospective randomized case control study in the well-baby clinic of a tertiary care hospital. Parent- child duos (9 months to 5 years) were exposed to literacy interventions at the time of their routine visit to the pediatrician. The change in reading behavior of the parent child duo was compared to age matched controls over a period of 18 months. Parent- child duos (9 months to 5 years) were exposed to literacy interventions at the time of their routine visit to the pediatrician. The change in reading behavior of the parent child duo was compared to age matched controls over a period of 18 months.

Results There was significant improvement in the reading behaviour of the parents and children exposed to literacy intervention as compared to the control group (p<0.05).

Conclusions ROR modelled programs if incorporated in the routine health visits would promote literacy and school readiness in our children.