Jumpstart!

Consider this fact: More than 1 in 3 children enter our schools without the skills needed for success.

For years, Jumpstart has been bringing at-risk preschool children and caring adults together to build the literacy, social, and emotional skills children need to thrive. These children need us, but they are not alone… we know that there are intellectual and emotional benefits for all children who engage in intimate, trusting, consistent relationships with an adult. That’s why we’re asking everyone in America to read for the record.

On August 24, 2006, we are invited to demonstrate our commitment to the potential of every child. Jumpstart’s Read for the Record campaign encourages adults across America to read with young children and set the world record for the number of children reading the same book in a single day with an adult.

Check the website to find an event location near you. Starbucks is selling a cool "limited edition" copy of The Little Engine That Could for the reading. But you probably have one on the shelf - or get a copy at the library. Find the "Read for the Record" event that is closest to you and join in. It means a lot.