RAP Overview

RAP, The Read Aloud Program, is a simple, direct family program that promotes reading aloud and helps parents and children share good books and build a lifelong love of reading.

RAP families take "time out" from busy schedules six times during one school semester to meet in the school cafeteria. After a short introduction by the presenter, the students gather in age-level groups to listen to volunteers read stories. Parents, grandparents, teachers, and caregivers stay in the cafeteria with the presenter and relax as they listen to stories, reading tips, and chapter books. RAP provides free snacks, drinks, and dinner, and the evening ends with door prizes and a party atmosphere.

RAP is designed for families with children from toddlers to teens. The program takes the stress out of reading. The sessions are relaxed and enjoyable. At RAP sessions, there are no tests, quizzes, or reports. Reading is fun.

The program begins at 5:45, after school programs have ended for the day. RAP provides short, simple handouts with book lists and tips on reading aloud. As the program unfolds, parents build a Family Reading Handbook from these handouts.

Ted Norris, RAP Presenter

The RAP schedule

5:45 - 6:00
    Sign in, get snacks and drinks and get settled

6:00 - 6:20
   Short introduction by presenter

6:20 - 7:10
   Children read with volunteers; adults stay with presenters in the cafeteria

7:10 - 7:25
   Party time! Dinner is served

7:25 - 7:45
   Door prizes (books) and closing

RAP brings families together. Schools, businesses, community organizations, and individuals join together to create a fun family event that supports children's learning and benefits all who participate.

E-mail us: read@readaloudamerica.org