NORTH CAROLINA HAS A READING CRISIS
Less than half of our children are learning to read. We’re working with parents to close those reading gaps before third grade.
OF OUR CHILDREN
aren’t ready to learn in kindergarten
OF 3RD GRADERS
aren’t reading at grade level
BRAINS ARE BUILT AFTER THEY ARE BORN
NC READS connects and supports parents of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with three mini home visits every week via text message. Each visit includes simple tips and ideas parents can do with their child based on their child’s exact age. There is nothing to buy, nowhere to go. Wherever the child and parent happen to be is the perfect place to help the child grow and develop.
THIS STARTS IN THE HOME
Parents don't need expensive programs.
They don't need perfect schedules.
They don't need educational degrees.
They simply need encouragement, practical ideas, and confidence that they are capable of building their child's brain.
NC READS provides ParentPal, powered by Ready4K, FREE to parents of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, regardless of socioeconomic status.
Through our early childhood education texting service, parents receive simple tips, prompts, and practical tools designed to turn everyday moments into engaging learning opportunities for young children. ParentPal makes it easy for families to support early learning, school readiness, and child development right at home.
TEXT NCREADS TO 70138 TO ENROLL
HOW IT WORKS
IGNITE
Help parents recognize that they are their child's first teacher.
ENCOURAGE
Provide simple prompts that make talking, singing, reading, and playing part of everyday life.
EDUCATE
Show families why early literacy matters and how small daily interactions build stronger brains.
ACTIVATE
Connect families with age-based resources that prepare children for kindergarten and beyond.
Parenting Support Delivered Right to THEIR Phone
Every week parents receive:
√ Age-specific text messages
√ Activities that take only minutes
√ Research-backed brain-building tips
√ Encouragement that builds confidence
√ Content available in nine languages
√ Simple ideas that fit everyday life
of ParentPal text messages are opened
of parents say ParentPal helps their child learn and grow
For less than $3 per child, NC READS provides a full year of encouragement, practical learning activities, and ongoing support through trusted community partners.
Your investment helps us:
√ Reach more families
√ Expand partnerships with pediatric offices, childcare centers, and community organizations
√ Equip parents with proven tools
√ Help more children read on grade level by third grade
Will you help us Solve North Carolina’s Reading Crisis?
