Adults, 10/30 minute programs, PD&D Rights, http://readingrockets.org
Sunday, January 10-May 16, 2:30-3:00 p.m.
Launching Young Readers is a public television series designed for teachers, parents, caregivers, and anyone else interested in helping children learn to read. Based on the latest research findings, the series consists of 30-minute television programs that explore the stages of reading that every child goes through. The programs feature the country's top reading experts, look at different reading strategies, provide practical advice for parents, and interweave the personal stories of children, families, and teachers.
Hosted by Fred Rogers, Annette Bening, Deborah Norville, Vivica A. Fox, Frank McCourt, Nick Spano, Al Roker, Rita Moreno, Henry Winkler, and Molly Ringwald, the programs were filmed in schools, childcare centers, libraries, research centers, and homes around the country. Each program also includes a profile of a prominent children's book author.
The series has won many awards, including four Silver Statuettes and a Bronze Statuette from the 24th Annual Telly Awards and a First Place Gold Camera award from the 36th Annual International Film and Video Festival.
1.) The Roots Of Reading
Sunday, January 10, 2:30-3:00 p.m.
This program looks at the earliest stages of literacy in such locations as a baby speech lab and a Head Start center. The program examines how parents, childcare providers, and kindergarten teachers can get children started on the road to literacy. Features host Fred Rogers and children's book author and illustrator Rosemary Wells (Max and Ruby).
2.) Sounds & Symbols
Sunday, January 17, 2:30-3:00 p.m.
This program focuses on how children learn the relationship between sounds, letters, and words as an initial step before being able to decode the printed word. Features host Annette Bening and children's book author and illustrator Norman Bridwell (Clifford the Big Red Dog).
3.) Fluent Reading
Sunday, January 24, 2:30-3:00 p.m.
This program explores the ability to decode quickly and achieve fluency. The program also demonstrates how early testing and intervention can help struggling readers. Features host Deborah Norville and children's book author and illustrator Kate Duke (Aunt Isabel Tells a Good One).
4.) Writing & Spelling
Sunday, February 7, 2:30-3:00 p.m.
This program examines the connection between reading and writing and between spelling and composition. The program features successful methods for encouraging children to write and build their vocabularies. Features host Vivica A. Fox and children's book author and illustrator William Joyce (George Shrinks).
5.) Reading For Meaning
Sunday, February 14, 2:30-3:00 p.m.
This program highlights effective strategies to help kids understand – and care about – what they read, the ultimate goal of learning how to read. Features host Frank McCourt and children's book author Walter Dean Myers (Harlem).
6.) Empowering Parents
Sunday, February 21, 2:30-3:00 p.m.
This program helps families identify the early signs of reading problems and provides advice for navigating the system in order to get kids help. Features host Al Roker.
7.) Becoming Bilingual
Sunday, April 18, 2:30-3:00 p.m.
This program takes an up-close look at the challenges of teaching children to read in a new language. Features host Rita Moreno.
8.) Reading & The Brain
Sunday, May 2, 2:30-3:00 p.m.
This program investigates how brain scientists — using technology in new and innovative ways — are working to solve the puzzle of why some children struggle to read while others don't. Features host Henry Winkler.
9.) A Chance To Read
Sunday, May 9, 2:30-3:00 p.m.
This program looks at the reading challenges facing kids with disabilities, and what schools across the country are doing to help them find success. Features host Molly Ringwald.
10.) Toddling Toward Reading
Sunday, May 16, 2:30-3:00 p.m.
We once thought a child's education started in kindergarten — but that could be years too late. Hosted by Reba McEntire, "Toddling Toward Reading" examines what it takes to give our preschoolers the early literacy skills they need to become successful readers. In Texas, Illinois, Georgia, and Washington, D.C., we'll meet the dedicated parents, teachers, and researchers who are discovering how to give our children a good start on a great future. We'll also visit with children's book author and illustrator Sandra Boynton, whose playful works delight fans of all ages.