Preparing infants for school: Volunteers from schools, libraries, hospitals team up to promote reading in low-income homes

On a chilly morning, some 20 low-income parents convened on the city's Southwest Side to hear a presentation on how reading to their children enhances brain development and school readiness.

Hardly unusual — except most of the prospective "students" were all younger than 6 months.

"This is wonderful," said Alonya Green, of Chicago, thumbing through the complimentary copy of "Hugs and Kisses," while her baby squirmed on her lap. "I can really see how you have to help your kids learn … even at this age."

Cradle to Classroom, which launched in January 2011, is run by volunteers from school districts, libraries and hospitals in struggling communities and emphasizes the significant role parents play in early literacy. In an era when long-term investment in at-risk youth is difficult to come by, that focus stands out.

"No matter your means, you can help your child develop healthy academic habits," said Bob McParland, a spokesman for Community High School District 218, which includes Shepard High School in Palos Heights, Richards High School in Oak Lawn and Eisenhower High School in Blue Island.

"Children take our lead in everything, whether it's our religion … or what baseball team we follow," he said. "When you start early, they can't help but learn from our example."

www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-x-cradle-to-classroom-0314-20120321,0,6162577.story