Marketing for Change: Only 1-in-3 parents read to their children, 8 and under

PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED ON EXAMINER

In a world where technology is so evolved that everything is possible, why are our children becoming more corrupted, lacking morals, becoming more spoiled, lacking conscious, etc.? Does it have to do with how we are raising them? Does it have to do with the minimum bonding time we are spending with them and in being the first teachers in their life? A new survey reports that “only one-in-three parents read bedtime stories at night…Children are more likely to spend time with TV or Video Games than books.”

And, here lies the problem.

Lack of bonding and discipline can lead to an increase in independence, but this increase can be harmful to a child if no direction is given. How are we showing our children we love them? How are we influencing their decisions?

We get mad that they emulate what is seen on television, but we are not filling idle minds with wholesome data or swaying their mindsets in the way that we should. If we aren’t that positive role model in their life, we can’t be upset when “the entertainment” keeps them fulfilled and becomes their new “favorite person.” We can’t be upset when our child comes home with dissatisfactory results on their report cards.

When we read, children look at pictures (if snuggled next to you). Chances are, they will follow the words along with you… whether they know what the words spell out or not.

When they see words in repetition, they eventually learn the word “on sight,” and this readies them to learn more complex words. This is a science that programs like “My Baby Can Read” have proven to us time and time again. This is also something that can’t be done one-on-one in the classroom, especially where large classes exist.

As a matter of fact, the age group of “8-years-old and under” are at the highest risk. “Children who don’t read well by the end of third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school than proficient readers,” according to a report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation.

This is a science that programs like “My Baby Can Read” have proven to us time and time again. This is something that can’t be done one-on-one in the classroom, especially where large classes exist. As a matter of fact, the age group of “8-years-old and under” are at the highest risk. “Children who don’t read well by the end of third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school than proficient readers,” according to a report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation.

Have we become too dependent on the programming our television networks have created to “educate” kids? Let us not forget that subliminal messaging is also often times placed in program messaging.

Innocent realities may also place “thoughts” into the mind of children. For example, an educational program called “IQ Kids” when heard without visuals, or when watched at “half span” attention sounds like it is clearly saying “I kill kids.” If your child can’t read, what message do they perceive? Do you think they will want to learn from these people, no matter how many awards they have won?

In the Online survey conducted by Macy’s, Reading is Fundamental and Harris Interactive, 33% of 1000 parents report nightly reading to their children. Through ten years of partnership, Macy’s and RIF find it even more important to deliver their 10 millionth book to children across the country. “Bedtime stories build the foundation for future achievement.

For a decade, Macy’s and RIF have worked together to get books and literacy resources to children in need, giving children and parents tools they need to dream big,” said Carol H. Rasco, president and CEO of Reading Is Fundamental. “While much news in this survey is encouraging, there is more work to be done – work that Be Book Smart and our partnership with Macy’s will help make possible.”

We must remember that this age group is that of our future society, our future decision-makers. If we aren’t teaching them correctly, who will? The television that has the sole purpose of selling advertising and merchandising?

Macy’s understands this and, since 2004, have donated over $25.8 million to RIF through customer-supported fundraising campaigns, in-store events and volunteer activities. They continue this mission with a campaign that runs Today (June 21) throughout until July 21, 2013, in the goal of donating the 10 millionth book to a child in need.

The campaign takes place Online and in stores across the country. The correlating Online campaign includes a Facebook Sweepstakes, and have included this statement in a recent Press Release:

“As part of the Be Book Smart campaign, Macy’s and RIF will host a sweepstakes on Facebook to encourage supporters to share information about the campaign and post images of quotes from favorite authors to their personal timelines via a Facebook app. Each week, one winner will be awarded a $500 Macy’s gift card. For official rules and to enter the sweepstakes, visit facebook.com/macys or rif.org/sweeps. No purchase necessary to enter or win a prize.”

What are you doing to ensure a bright and positive future for our children? Start reading to them, today!