New Jersey Senate Bill S2191

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Requires DOH to encourage health care facilities and licensed health care professionals to develop a "Reach Out and Read Program."

Summary

Senate Bill 2191 requires the New Jersey Department of Health (DOH) to promote the implementation of the 'Reach Out and Read Program' within healthcare facilities and among licensed healthcare professionals. The bill emphasizes the importance of early childhood literacy and anticipatory guidance during well-child visits for children aged six months to five years. By encouraging parents to engage in shared reading activities, the legislation aims to enhance children's language and emotional skills, thereby fostering better family dynamics and developmental outcomes. The proposed program is rooted in evidence-based practices that have demonstrated improvements in both receptive and expressive language skills among children. By incorporating developmental guidelines and literacy tools into regular health check-ups, the bill seeks to provide healthcare providers with resources that support child rearing and early childhood development discussions between parents and professionals. Furthermore, the DOH will support the program by creating accessible informational materials and establishing a streamlined application process for facilities wishing to adopt the program. This approach intends to make it easier for healthcare professionals to integrate literacy promotion into their practices, contributing to a collaborative effort among pediatricians and family practitioners. The bill aligns with recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, emphasizing early literacy as a critical component of pediatric primary care. If enacted, SB 2191 will potentially expand the role of healthcare providers beyond traditional medical advice, placing a significant focus on supporting families in encouraging literacy from a young age, thus impacting broader educational and developmental aspirations within the state.