Books from Birth is a hospital-based early literacy initiative aimed at equipping new parents with age-appropriate books and accessible information on the importance of reading from birth. This proactive intervention is designed to promote equitable literacy development and support families during the critical early years of a child’s life. Implemented at Erie Shores HealthCare in Leamington, Ontario, the project reaches families at the point of birth, before gaps in access or resources can take hold. The research team will evaluate how this approach influences parents’ confidence and comfort in initiating early literacy practices, particularly in rural and under-resourced communities. Insights will be used to inform future literacy interventions and support systems for young families.

This project supports equitable access to early literacy by reaching families at birth with books and accessible resources. It aims to improve school readiness, strengthen parent confidence, and reduce long-term disparities in child development outcomes.