The Best Reading and Family Engagement Programs for Children Ages 0–8

06.18.2025

Strong reading skills are the foundation for success—but they don’t develop in the classroom alone. The best reading programs for children begin early and include the whole family. That’s exactly what Raising a Reader offers: high-quality, research-backed reading and family engagement programs for children ages 0–8.

Whether you’re supporting toddlers, preschoolers, or early elementary students, our programs build home literacy routines that nurture a love of reading and a strong start in school.

Why Early Literacy and Family Engagement Matter

Children who are strong readers by third grade are more likely to graduate, thrive in school, and succeed long-term. But reading skills begin long before third grade—and they’re strongest when supported at home.

Today, only 41% of children under 5 are frequently read to. That’s why family reading programs are more important than ever.

What Makes Raising a Reader the Best Choice

✔ Weekly take-home books that build home libraries
✔ Guidance for parents and caregivers to make reading joyful
✔ Aligned with early learning and literacy standards
✔ Ideal for preschool literacy programselementary reading programs, and child care centers
✔ Proven to strengthen family engagement and student outcomes

A Program for Every Setting: From Toddlers to 2nd Grade

Raising a Reader works across settings—at home, in schools, and in community programs. Whether you’re implementing a reading program for toddlers or an elementary reading program to reinforce classroom learning, we support the full 0–8 early learning journey.

Our Classic Red Book Bag and Home Library programs are easy to implement and backed by decades of impact.

📘 Explore Raising a Reader’s Early Literacy Programs

Related Posts

01.08.2026 Tips

How Schools Pay for Raising a Reader: Federal & State Funding Options

One of the most common questions schools ask is, “How do we fund Raising a Reader?” The good news: many schools use existing federal, state, and local funds already designated for literacy and family engagement. Federal Funding Opportunities Title I, Part A (ESSA)Many schools use Title I funds to support family engagement, supplemental literacy materials, and evidence-based programs—all of which align with Raising a ...

Read More
12.22.2025 Featured

Building Healthier Futures Through Reading: Valleywise Health and Raising a Reader

At Valleywise Health, caring for families means looking beyond clinical care to what truly supports lifelong health. As Arizona’s only public teaching health system—and the state’s largest safety-net provider—Valleywise Health serves communities where access, equity, and opportunity matter deeply. Through eight Family Resource Centers located within Federally Qualified Health Centers, Valleywise Health helps families reduce barriers and strengthen stability. These centers ...

Read More