NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Sound Shore Medical Center’s (SSMC) highly-successful Reach Out & Read Program – now in its 13th year – recently celebrated Early Literacy Awareness Week with a visit from New York State Assemblyman George Latimer. Joined by patients of the Outpatient Pediatric Department (OPD), their parents and Medical Center Administrators, Mr. Latimer helped recognize the occasion.
Commenting on Assemblyman Latimer’s visit, President and CEO John R. Spicer said, “We are delighted to recognize George Latimer not only as a supporter of Sound Shore Medical Center but also as a champion of literacy and children.” He concluded, “Assemblyman Latimer frequently takes the pulse of healthcare through visits such as this, and we are pleased that he could join us for our Reach Out & Read/Early Literacy Awareness Week event.”
Each patient between the ages of six months and five years scheduled for a well-child visit at Sound Shore’s OPD receives a free book. Starting a doctor’s visit with an age-appropriate book helps physicians not only bond with their patients but also gauge their patient’s development. Reinforcing the message that literacy and reading are vital to development, doctors and nurses also encourage parents to read aloud to their young children.
At every clinic visit, patients and their parents are exposed to literacy-rich waiting rooms that often feature guest readers. Members of SSMC’s Outpatient Pediatric Department staff are powerful proponents of literary and its importance to a child’s overall wellbeing. Building on this strong foundation, each participant in the celebration received a new book to add to their home libraries.
As a champion of early childhood reading, Assemblyman Latimer took time from his busy schedule to help celebrate SSMC’s Reach Out & Read Program along with Early Literacy Awareness Week. Before reading the perennial favorite, “Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed”, he told the children that reading was important to him growing up in Mount Vernon. He added that through books he had the joy of visiting far-away places. George Latimer’s warmth and charm captured the audience and his enthusiasm kept the children entertained and eager to hear more.
For a prompt, personal referral to one of Sound Shore Medical Center’s internists or specialists, please call MDs-LINE (914.637.5463); and for additional information on our Care. For Life. services, visit www.soundshore.org today!
