During Mental Health Awareness Month, Ready Readers highlights reading’s impact on children’s emotional wellness, offering storytime programs that boost confidence a
ST. LOUIS — During Mental Health Awareness Month, Ready Readers is highlighting the important role reading can play in supporting children’s emotional wellness, confidence, and connection with family members.
The organization’s Storytime Program focuses on social-emotional learning through books that help children better understand feelings, relationships, and self-expression. Leaders with Ready Readers say reading together goes far beyond academics — helping children feel seen, supported, and emotionally connected.
Program Director Maggie Strube says storytime can create meaningful bonding moments between children and caregivers while also encouraging confidence and communication skills. The organization carefully selects books that promote comfort, representation, kindness, and emotional growth for families and classrooms.
Ready Readers also encourages families to build simple reading routines at home, whether it’s reading before bedtime, sharing stories during the day, or allowing children to pick books that reflect their own experiences and emotions.
The segment also featured colorful storytime materials, interactive displays, and recommended children’s titles designed to support social-emotional learning and positive mental well-being.
Learn more here: https://readyreaders.org/
