The LIF-WAIT Reading Together, Growing Together Project will help children and
families in Oakland develop stronger reading habits, greater confidence, and a more
positive relationship with literacy.

Through guided reading circles, storytelling, group discussions, and interactive literacy
activities, participating students will have opportunities to improve their reading fluency,
vocabulary, comprehension, and communication skills. Children who may initially feel
hesitant about reading aloud will receive encouragement in a welcoming environment
where their efforts and progress are celebrated.

We expect students to become more comfortable expressing their ideas, asking
questions, discussing stories, and selecting books that reflect their interests and
experiences. By making reading enjoyable and interactive, we hope to increase
children's motivation to read both inside and outside the classroom.

Families will also benefit by learning simple, practical ways to incorporate reading into
everyday routines. Parents and caregivers will be encouraged to read with their
children, discuss stories together, and establish consistent reading habits at home.

An important outcome of this project will be stronger connections among children,
families, and community reading spaces. By providing access to books and shared
literacy experiences, we aim to help families view reading as an enjoyable activity that
brings people together.

We will evaluate the project's impact through participation records, student engagement,
informal reading observations, and feedback from parents and caregivers.

Our desired outcome is for participating children to become more confident, enthusiastic
readers and for families to continue celebrating literacy long after the project activities
have ended.