March is National Reading Awareness Month! This national event kicks off with National Read Across America Day on March 2nd, in honor of Dr. Seuss' birthday. Reading Awareness Month is a time to reflect on the importance of reading and literacy, and to encourage people to make reading a part of their daily lives.

Reading is a fundamental skill that is vital in today's world. Unfortunately, many people in the United States struggle with reading, and the consequences of this can be far-reaching. Children who are unable to read proficiently by the end of third grade are more likely to drop out of school, and adults who struggle with reading are at a disadvantage in the workplace and in their personal lives.

National Reading Awareness Month was established in 1998 by the National Education Association (NEA) to address these issues and to promote literacy. In honor of National Reading Awareness Month, schools and libraries often host events such as book fairs, reading challenges, and literacy programs. Many organizations also use this month as an opportunity to donate books to those in need, to distribute free books in communities, and to raise awareness of the importance of literacy. This month also provides an opportunity for individuals to reflect on their own reading habits and to set goals for themselves. Whether you are an avid reader or someone who has not picked up a book in a while, this month can serve as a reminder of the value of reading and the many benefits it offers.

What can you do to celebrate National Reading Awareness Month? If you're a teacher or a parent, promote a love of reading in your classroom or home by creating a reading challenge, setting up a cozy reading nook, arranging a book swap, or committing to a daily read aloud. Give your young readers time to read independently, too! Provide them with reading materials, book lists, and library resources. Choice reading and independent reading time—when exercised appropriately—can help them develop their confidence and independence as readers. It gives them a sense of ownership over their own learning and helps them become more self-directed learners. 

That said, successful independent reading time often requires more than just books. Especially for struggling readers, it should be structured, motivating, and fun. Fortunately, we have the perfect tool to make that happen! One Minute Reader is a research-based reading program aligned with the Science of Reading. Students work independently at their own pace and read at an appropriate level of material. The program guides them through the motivating steps of the program while tracking their progress. Readers develop fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension skills while expanding their knowledge, boosting reading engagement, and building positive reading habits.

Teachers → If you are a Read Live user, One Minute Reader Live is included as an option for each Read Live license. If you would like to get started with a 60-day free trial of Read Live, click here. 

Parents → Your children can use the One Minute Reader system at home. Try it free for seven days!

However you choose to celebrate, we wish you a happy National Reading Awareness Month filled with books and quality reading time. As always, please connect with us if we can support you in any way.