About Us
At Reading Foundation, we build on the initiatives of the Children’s Books Foundation to drive institutional change by uniting organizations, local authorities, and businesses. Through our various programs, we work with over 2,000 schools, libraries, and kindergartens, aiming to enhance children’s literacy from a young age.
The Issue
In Bulgaria, 54% of 15-year-olds are functionally illiterate (PISA 2022). This problem extends to adults, impacting their children and perpetuating a cycle of illiteracy. Functional illiteracy limits critical thinking, problem-solving, and creative skills, which are essential for personal and professional growth. Without these abilities, individuals are more vulnerable to misinformation and manipulation.
Our Solution: Early Literacy Development
Our project focuses on building functional literacy from early childhood through reading for pleasure. By fostering a love for reading, we aim to break the cycle of illiteracy and equip children with skills needed for a better future. The foundation of functional literacy is laid between birth and age 15, and it’s crucial for all other forms of literacy, including health, financial, and media literacy.
What We Do
We promote functional literacy by:
- Encouraging children’s development through knowledge and playful learning approaches.
- Bridging scientific research on reading with the needs of Bulgarian children.
- Enhancing children’s curiosity, emotional intelligence, and cognitive abilities.
- Engaging parents in the reading journey to prevent the cycle of illiteracy.
Our Goals
- Equip children (0-16 years) with the skills for lifelong success.
- Provide schools, libraries, and kindergartens with high-quality books and training.
- Change public attitudes towards reading by connecting with families, educators, and institutions.
- Build a strong foundation for achieving all UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Project Highlights: Library in the Kindergarten
Objective:
We aim to prepare children for academic success by introducing small libraries in kindergartens. These libraries will be stocked with high-quality books tailored to children aged 3-7, and teachers will receive training on how to effectively use these resources.
How It Works:
- Book Selection: Carefully chosen books on various topics that stimulate curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity.
- Teacher Training: A 2-hour session will help teachers integrate reading into their curriculum to foster literacy skills.
- Parent Engagement: Materials will be provided to parents, including guides on how to support reading at home.
- Sustainability: The libraries will continue to serve the children and teachers beyond the one-year project period.
Impact and Results:
A pilot project, conducted between 2016 and 2021 at a kindergarten in Sofia, showed remarkable success. Children who participated in the program demonstrated readiness for school, mastering independent reading within three months and showing a strong interest in reading for pleasure.
How You Can Help
Contact us at info@readingfoundation.bg to find a tailored solution.
Join Us in Building a Literate Future!
When you support this initiative, you’re investing in the future of children, helping to raise well-educated, critical thinkers who will positively impact society.