Bridge Foundation Newsletter Read to Rise magazine

BRIDGE FOUNDATION WHAT WE KNOW WORKS Bridging the Gap Read to Rise builds on what we know works. When reading, a child’s brain is stimulated and read-a loud and sharing of ideas about stories facilitate critical thinking, vocabulary, pronunciation, listening skills, and imagination including a bonding experience between parent and child. The Brain By 8 months, a brain has about 1,000 trillion nerve connections and by age 10, it is reduced to 500 trillion. A marked difference. According to leading early childhood experts, the brain operates on a “use it or lose it” basis and they have found that early experiences are the defining factors affecting the rate of reduction in nerve connections. Ministry of Education Vision In Trinidad, the Ministry of Education (MOE) vision is to educate and develop children who are able to fulfil their potential and be academically balanced and well- adjusted socially and culturally. MOE works collaboratively, efficiently, effectively to educate and develop an intelligent, versatile, productive and well- rounded child. A Holistic Approach Read to Rise (R2R) complements all different types of reading strategies taught in schools and embraces a balanced approach reading framework. R2R uses these strategies to ensure children have these early experiences: Reading Aloud, Interactive Reading, Reading and Family Reading make a marked difference. R2R Expections: more attentive and focused learners more self-confident learners articulated and pronounced expressions, conveyed with confidence over time more predictions about stories through constant interactive discussions. R2R offers positive reinforcement, encouragement and comfort which creates a wonderful school and home learning environment. READ TO RISE | 13

Bridge Foundation Newsletter Read to Rise magazine | Page 13