How we will utilise these books

In our Padho Jalna Foundational Literacy Program, we implement reading camps in Government Schools in the Jalna district to kindle interest in reading and improve reading ability. Currently, more than half of children in grade 5 struggle to read a simple paragraph. Our one-week intensive reading camps utilise the four levels of picture-rich books by Pratham Books, along with games, puzzles, plays, small gifts, and recognition through certificates to instil a sense of wonder about books among children.

We have prepared multiple mobile reading kits, with the books being a key component, that we take from one school to the next to conduct these camps. Teachers are provided with training on how to conduct the camps, and our staff supports them during the camp. Progress is tracked using pre and post-reading assessments of children to determine their reading levels. The response to our camps in 30 schools has been tremendous, with several children progressing from reading single words to reading small stories by the end of the camp, developing a newfound excitement about books. We aim to expand this impactful initiative to over 100 schools in the Jalna district.