A bright pink dress. A curious smile. And a book that just might become a child’s favorite. For five-year-old Vaelyn, her recent well child visit to Lakewood Health System wasn’t just about a check-up — it was about discovering a new story.
Thanks to Lakewood’s participation in the national “Reach Out and Read” program, little moments like this are part of something much bigger: a powerful investment in childhood literacy.
Dr. Neil Bratney, a longtime pediatric provider at Lakewood, handed Vaelyn her very own copy of “There’s a Bear on My Chair” during her visit — a book she eagerly opened as Dr. Bratney read the book to her in the exam room. These heartwarming interactions are just one example of the positive impact Lakewood is making through this literacy-promoting program, which is generously funded by the Lakewood Health System Foundation.
“I’ve been involved in the program for the 12 years I’ve been at Lakewood,” says Dr. Bratney. “It’s awesome to know we’re making a difference in so many kids’ lives, especially kids who might not have books in their home in the first place.”
What is Reach Out and Read?
Reach Out and Read is a national program that encourages early literacy and healthy development by integrating books into pediatric care. At Lakewood’s Staples clinic and satellite locations in Browerville, Eagle Bend, Motley and Pillager, children receive a book during each well child check from six months through age five. The books aren’t just giveaways, they’re conversation starters, bonding tools and sources of comfort.
“Doctors’ visits can be a little stressful,” Dr. Bratney admits. “Handing a child a new book certainly calms that. It helps make the visit more comfortable.”
He adds that many families now associate checkups with picking out a new book, making the experience memorable and positive.
Books with a Purpose
Behind the scenes, Sarah Winter, Lakewood’s marketing coordinator, manages the logistics of ordering books for the program.
“I order books from approved Reach Out and Read vendors like Scholastic, All About Books and Books4School,” Winter explains. “I try to find books that are colorful, engaging and something I would want to sit and read to my own children.”
The most rewarding part is simple, she said. “Books are so important in a child’s development. Knowing I provided an opportunity for a parent and a child to spend time together and read is priceless.”
Lakewood providers also undergo Reach Out and Read training, ensuring they are equipped to talk with families about the importance of early literacy. Dr. Bratney notes that “95 to 100 percent of our providers” have completed this training because the message is most powerful when it comes from the child’s own healthcare provider.
The Impact in Numbers
Since 2015, Lakewood has distributed more than 25,000 books through Reach Out and Read. The numbers grow every year which is a direct reflection of the dedication of Lakewood’s staff and the generosity of the Foundation that makes it all possible.
David Jeremiason, Foundation development officer, said the foundation is proud to be a longtime supporter of the Reach Out and Read program.
“By incorporating this program into our wellness visits for children, we are helping build a base of language development and school readiness that is proven to be greatly important for children. Donations to our general fund enable us to continue to offer this program providing free books to kids in our community.”
Whether it’s a funny bear on a chair or how a dinosaur counts to 10, each book handed out at Lakewood is a gift of literacy – one story at a time.
“It’s amazing to watch this program grow at Lakewood,” adds Dr. Bratney.
If you are interested in contributing to Reach Out and Read, you can visit Lakewood Health System Foundation’s page.