Empowering Youth to Read and Succeed By Aaron J. Lewis, Graduate Assistant for Youth Development, Urban Affairs Unit

Literacy becomes a more present danger as we embark upon a new generation of leaders, scholars, and thinkers. Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia, defines literacy as "the ability to use language to read, write, listen, and speak." In current contexts, literacy means reading and writing at a level adequate for written communication (Wikipedia, 2006). This level generally enables one to successfully function in society. The path to becoming a reader begins early in a child's life and continues throughout adulthood.

Literacy skills have been identified as strong indicators of a child's success. A child's success in mastering basic reading, writing, and spoken language is critical to his or her future achievements. The skills children develop from kindergarten through third grade are very important (NIFL, 2006). These skills lay the basic foundation for future matriculation. At the end of third grade, a child must read, write, listen, and speak with ease in order understand information presented in future levels of education (NIFL, 2006).

Sowing seeds for literacy begins at an early age (MSU Connect, 2003). Before they go to school, children learn the basic groundwork for reading and writing at home. While there are no right or wrong ways or shortcuts to improve a child's reading achievement, there are certain skills a child must utilize to read well (NIFL, 2006).

Strive to make reading and writing fun. Children learn pre-reading skills by listening to stories, handling books, and watching adults read, write, and speak. Take children to the library and make reading an adventure. Encourage children to read for pleasure. This can motivate children to read, and motivation is a key factor in ensuring success.

In closing, literacy is a problem we must tackle head on. It takes many teachers to help a child become a good reader. Learning does not end at school; we must encourage our children to read and write at home. After all, children are the future. They possess endless opportunities and it is our responsibility to make sure they are prepared.

References
Nelson, Ron. (2005). Improving the early literacy skills of young children at risk for reading difficulties. New Horizons for Learning. Retrieved September 14, 2006.

Howell, Cheryl. (Fall 2003). An edge on youth literacy: The promises and challenges of community-based programs. Connect. Retrieved September 14, 2006.

Hubbard, Michelle. (2005). Literacy in kindergarten. Literacy. Retrieved September 14, 2006.

Wikipedia. (September 12, 2006). Literacy. Retrieved September 14, 2006.

National Institute for Literacy. (May 23, 2006). Reading facts. Retrieved September 14, 2006.

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