The Tadeusz Różewicz Municipal Public Library in Wrocław has joined the nationwide initiative "Prescription Book. Recipe for Success", implemented by Foundation for Universal Reading. This is an innovative approach combining health prevention with the promotion of reading.
The program's premise is to incorporate reading as a preventative measure in children's health. The main idea is simple: doctors and medical staff "prescribe" books as an effective tool to support the health and development of children. Reading supports:
- linguistic, emotional and social development,
- better sleep and concentration,
- reducing stress and anxiety,
- building relationships, a sense of security and emotional stability.
As Anna Janus, director of the Municipal Public Library in Wrocław, emphasizes:
„"We want books to be present not only in homes and preschools, but also in doctors' offices. Reading aloud is a powerful support for a child's development – linguistic, emotional, and social."”
On June 3, the Wrocław library hosted an information stand during the conference "Building human potential from the earliest period of life", organized by Department of Health and Social Affairs of the Wrocław City Hall. Visitors will be able to talk to librarians, learn about the project, and receive a list of recommended children's literature titles.
Psychologist and psychotherapist Małgorzata Ohme emphasizes: "Reading books to children is one of the most important and simplest investments in their mental health."„
Diana Gerald, CEO of BookTrust, adds: „Reading improves children’s outcomes in four key areas: intellectual development, health and well-being, social development and personal development.”
„"The 'Book on Prescription' program involves a seemingly unconventional community in promoting reading. The authority of doctors, nurses, midwives, and the entire medical community is incredibly important – in communicating with parents and caregivers, they convince them that regular reading has a real impact on their children's health and development," adds Katarzyna Konopka, board member of the Universal Reading Foundation and program manager, who attended the event.
On the website: www.ksiazkanarecepte.pl you will find all the information about the project, book suggestions, as well as lists of titles prepared by specialists – supporting children’s development and facilitating conversation on important topics.
The program organizers invite people to register for free book packages for children, which will be distributed to doctors' offices to facilitate the implementation of interventions during visits and reading recommendations.
Reading should become a natural part of childhood and a key part of future pediatrics – just as important as proper nutrition and vitamins. The Universal Reading Foundation, as the program's organizer, invites everyone to participate: parents, caregivers, teachers, doctors, and nurses!