483 Promoting Early Childhood Literacy in Paediatric Clinics: Reach Out and Read (ROR) Ireland Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Regularly reading aloud with young children encourages early literacy. ROR is an inexpensive, internationally well established programme that successfully promotes language development by training healthcare providers to encourage reading aloud and providing them with books to give to young patients (Rotunda Hospital: €2500 provides over 1000 books / annum).Aim: Pilot study evaluating first ROR programme in IrelandMethods: Convenience samples of families with children < 3 years, followed by neonatologists in Dublin maternity hospital outpatient department, surveyed regarding literacy orientation. Responses compared pre-ROR (n=38) & post-ROR (n=38), sub-analysed using medical cardholder status as marker for socio-economic disadvantage. Anonymous surveys assessing paediatricians' & nurses' opinions of programme.Results: Survey results for medical card holders Pre-ROR % / Post-ROR %; 55.6 / 93.3 (Fischer p=0.02) had books for their child, 0 / 37 (Fischer p< 0.01) read at bedtime, 0 / 31.3 (Chi square p< 0.01) listed reading as a favourite activity, 5.6 / 25 (Fischer p=0.13) reported staff discussed language development. Median number of books and minutes spent reading / day increased from 4.5 to 9 and 10 to 30 respectively (Wilcox p=0.07 & p=0.21). Of 14/16 eligible staff who completed survey, all recommend ROR to colleagues; 12/14 felt programme should be continued; 11/14 regularly used ROR. Of those, all enjoy and would continue using ROR. Since ROR, 8/11 discussed language development more and 7/11 felt more knowledgeable on language development.Conclusion: ROR, an inexpensive and effective literacy promotion programme, was successfully incorporated into an Irish paediatric outpatient department.