Join Read for America Today!
Empower a Generation Through the Joy of Online Buddy Reading!
What is Buddy Reading?
Buddy reading, also known as peer reading or paired reading, is a popular educational practice where two students read together. Typically, this involves pairing a more experienced reader (often an older student or "Big Buddy") with a less experienced reader (a younger student or "Little Buddy"). The Big Buddy provides support, encouragement, and guidance, helping the Little Buddy improve independent reading and comprehension skills.
Meet Our Little Reading Buddies!
Emerging & Developing Readers
These young readers are embarking on their exciting journey into the world of books. Emerging readers are just beginning to decode words and uncover the magic of stories, while developing readers are building confidence as they explore more complex texts and expand their vocabulary. With the guidance of their Big Buddies, both groups are steadily growing their reading skills and discovering the joy of reading.
Proficient & AdvANCED Readers
Proficient readers have become confident in their reading abilities, tackling a variety of texts with ease. They are developing critical thinking skills as they analyze stories and deepen their comprehension. Advanced readers, on the other hand, are mastering sophisticated literature, delving into themes and nuanced ideas with enthusiasm. Big Buddies help guide both groups toward greater independence and a lifelong love of reading.’
Newcomers/English Language Learners
These remarkable students are navigating the challenges of learning a new language while adapting to a new country. As they work toward mastering English, their Big Buddies offer vital support, helping them build language skills, gain confidence, and thrive in their new environment. Together, they embark on a journey to fluency, unlocking the world of English reading and communication.
Pediatric Patients: Bringing the Joy of Reading to Every Child
At Read for America, we understand that pediatric patients face unique challenges that can make traditional learning difficult. Our virtual buddy reading program is designed to help these young patients explore and practice reading from the safety and comfort of their environment.
Whether a child is admitted to the hospital or homebound due to medical conditions, our program keeps Little Buddies safe and engaged. Through Read for America, children are paired with dedicated and experienced Big Buddies who model expert reading skills and foster meaningful connections.
500 Reading Heroes!
Join us in our mission to transform the lives of young readers across the nation with our “500 Reading Heroes" campaign. This year, Read for America is setting an ambitious goal to pair 500 students, our Little Buddies, with dedicated high school and college Big Buddies. Together, they will explore the vast world of literature through Epic’s award-winning digital library, diving into hundreds of e-books that inspire, educate, and entertain.
About Read for America
Read for America offers a FREE and convenient way for parents to encourage their children to develop a love of reading with the help of dedicated high school and college Reading Buddies who engage in e-book read-alouds with their Little Buddies.
Parents schedule online buddy read-aloud practice sessions that last 30-45 minutes. Children (Little Buddies) practice buddy reading at home on a tablet or PC under the supervision of their parents, receiving enthusiastic tutoring from their Big Buddies.
This educational partnership helps students improve their reading proficiency and comprehension, fostering a love of reading that can last a lifetime.
Everyone plays an important role in reading success!
Click to learn how Read For America works and the many benefits for Little Buddies, Big Buddies, and Parents.
Why Read for America?
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Early Literacy is Crucial
Children not proficient in reading by third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school.
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Persistent Reading Gaps
Significant disparities exist in reading proficiency, especially among low-income students and English language learners.
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Effective Peer Tutoring
Peer tutoring significantly improves reading skills and academic performance.
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Youth Empowerment
High school and college students gain leadership and community service experience by serving as Big Buddies.
Benefits for Children
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Improved 📈 Reading Skills
Our program helps your child enhance their reading proficiency and comprehension through personalized sessions.
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Engaging and Fun 😍
High school and College Reading Big Buddies make reading enjoyable, fostering a love for books and learning.
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Academic Role Models 👥
Our tutors serve as positive role models, inspiring your child to achieve their best.
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Enhanced 🗣️ Language Skills
Reading aloud helps children improve their vocabulary, pronunciation, and comprehension.
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Fostering a Love for 📚 Reading
Engaging stories captivate children's imaginations and encourage a lifelong love of books.
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Ongoing 👐 Support
Access resources and guidance to help you engage with and support your child's development.
Welcome to
storytime!
Get to know us, our mission, and our passion for fostering a love of reading in young minds. We make it easy for parents to connect online with high school and college reading Big Buddies. Embrace the magic of interactive read-alouds and watch your child's imagination soar!
Safety and Security
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Rigorous Screening
Big Buddies undergo a thorough screening process to ensure they are well-qualified and of good character.
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Recorded Sessions
All reading sessions are recorded for safety and quality assurance.
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Chat Disabled
To maintain focus and security, chat features are turned off during sessions.
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Parental Supervision
Parents are required to be within earshot during sessions to provide additional oversight and support.
