How the Pediatric Audiology Program Is Helping Kids Grow Their Love of Reading

To boost literacy and promote a lifelong love of reading, Pediatric Audiology is handing out books to young patients who have the opportunity to choose them after their hearing tests.

Most patients under the age of 10 at Greene Medical Arts Pavilion (MAP3) preferred books when offered a choice between stickers or books as a prize following their hearing tests last fall. The book giveaway also was piloted at Children’s Hospital at Montefiore (CHAM) and Montefiore Wakefield. Around 350 books, total, have been handed out since the Otorhinolaryngology Department’s program began in October.

The idea is to foster healthy behaviors in the home for the entire family, so books can be offered to children who accompany their older siblings to the appointment.

Peter Adamson, AuD, CCC-A

Organizers plan to expand the program this year to Montefiore Einstein’s Hutchinson Campus and Rose F. Kennedy Children’s Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center (CERC). They also hope, eventually, to add components such as assisting patients and their siblings in signing up for public library cards.

The large demand means more books, particularly bilingual and Spanish-language books, are needed. Gently used books are acceptable, as is anything representing diverse cultures. To donate, contact Peter Adamson, AuD, CCC-A, and the Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology team at padamson@montefiore.org.