Blog
Previous Post
Newly Refurbished Pirates Charities Gym Unveiled
New Early Literacy Initiative to Help Children Build Language Skills and Stronger Family Bonds
March 6, 2026
This Read Across America Week, The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh launched The Early Literacy Initiative to foster a love of reading in the families the Institute serves, one story at a time.
Encouraging parents and caregivers to sit, read and engage with their children, the initiative brought nine reading nooks to all five locations of The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh – Squirrell Hill, Bridgeville, Norwin, Beaver and Washington County.
Led by pediatrician Dr. Johanna Vidal-Phelan, president and CEO, the initiative is inspired by growing evidence from the American Academy of Pediatrics showing that reading aloud with young children supports language development and emotional regulation.
“Supporting holistic child development and strengthening families are at the core of everything we do. Reading aloud is one of the simplest — and most powerful — ways families can nurture lifelong health, learning, and connection,” says Dr. Vidal-Phelan. “Building early literacy skills and creating moments of togetherness are more important than ever, especially at a time when media and screens demand so much of our attention.”
The launch of the initiative coincides with local and state efforts, with Gov. Josh Shapiro prioritizing adult and family literacy in his 2026-2027 budget address and Mayor Corey O’Connor and his wife Katie O’Connor hosting a roundtable discussion on early education and literacy last month.
Currently, the program has 300 books housed across its locations, including diverse titles celebrating students, children and families the Institute serves.
The program is supported by the Keefe Ellis Memorial Fund, which is sustained through contributions from many donors in memory of J. Keefe Ellis, Jr., a late board member of 15 years. Current board member Stacy Ellis has provided continued partnership and support in advancing and inspiring this work.
On March 5, the Institute hosted a private event to celebrate the contributions of the Keefe Ellis Memorial Fund for The Early Literacy Initiative with the Ellis family.
Philanthropic support ensures that children of all abilities can build the communication and literacy skills that shape their futures. If you would like to donate to The Children's Institute or the Early Literacy Initiative, please visit https://www.amazingkids.org/giving.
Encouraging parents and caregivers to sit, read and engage with their children, the initiative brought nine reading nooks to all five locations of The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh – Squirrell Hill, Bridgeville, Norwin, Beaver and Washington County.
Led by pediatrician Dr. Johanna Vidal-Phelan, president and CEO, the initiative is inspired by growing evidence from the American Academy of Pediatrics showing that reading aloud with young children supports language development and emotional regulation.
“Supporting holistic child development and strengthening families are at the core of everything we do. Reading aloud is one of the simplest — and most powerful — ways families can nurture lifelong health, learning, and connection,” says Dr. Vidal-Phelan. “Building early literacy skills and creating moments of togetherness are more important than ever, especially at a time when media and screens demand so much of our attention.”
The launch of the initiative coincides with local and state efforts, with Gov. Josh Shapiro prioritizing adult and family literacy in his 2026-2027 budget address and Mayor Corey O’Connor and his wife Katie O’Connor hosting a roundtable discussion on early education and literacy last month.
Currently, the program has 300 books housed across its locations, including diverse titles celebrating students, children and families the Institute serves.
The program is supported by the Keefe Ellis Memorial Fund, which is sustained through contributions from many donors in memory of J. Keefe Ellis, Jr., a late board member of 15 years. Current board member Stacy Ellis has provided continued partnership and support in advancing and inspiring this work.
On March 5, the Institute hosted a private event to celebrate the contributions of the Keefe Ellis Memorial Fund for The Early Literacy Initiative with the Ellis family.
Take Action
Not sure what the next step is? You can always call our Information Center to speak to a team member who can direct you to the support and answers you need.
Call Us: 412.420.2400
Comments (0)