In classrooms and living rooms across Winnebago County, something powerful is happening—one book at a time.
Through United Way’s Tiny Turners and Page Turners literacy programs, children are not just receiving free books. They’re developing lifelong reading habits, building stronger bonds with family, and discovering new ways to learn and grow. And the feedback from the people who see it happen every day—educators and home visitors—tells a story as compelling as the books themselves.
Tiny Turners: Tiny Moments, Big Impact
Geared toward infants and toddlers, the Tiny Turners program equips families with appropriate age books during home visits. And the impact, according to survey responses, is profound.
Most respondents described how the books became a centerpiece of interaction, transforming simple visits into opportunities for connection and growth. One family support worker wrote:
"We educate families on the benefits of reading to their infants. We also encourage moms to read to their babies in the womb to promote fetal bonding."
Others described using the books as tools to model reading behaviors, spark child-led learning, and even assess early developmental milestones. One respondent explained:
"I model reading to the families, especially those with low levels of literacy."
While every child’s reaction is different, the message was consistent: families look forward to receiving these books. Educators report that the books spark curiosity and conversations—sometimes for the very first time.
Page Turners: Igniting a Love for Reading in Classrooms
If Tiny Turners plant the seeds, Page Turners waters them. Serving preschool-aged children and early elementary students, the program distributes books paired with curriculum materials and parent resources.
Teachers were asked: How impactful is the Page Turner program on student literacy? The majority, 86 percent, responded very and somewhat impactful.
And the written responses paint a more complete picture.
"Any time you put literature in the hands of children, it increases their chances for future success."
"Many of my students don’t have books at home… They’re excited when I write their name on the inside cover—because it means the book is theirs."
"This bridges reading at school with reading at home. Students re-tell the story to their parents, which reinforces what they learned."
The program also builds more than just literacy. Teachers praised the books’ ability to launch social-emotional discussions, spark vocabulary growth, and instill confidence.
A Shared Story
Both programs, despite their differences in delivery, share a common thread: books as tools for equity, connection, and empowerment.
Parents are engaging. Teachers are inspired. Children are thrilled to have something of their own. And across the board, the message is clear—these programs matter.
As one teacher put it:
"Students get so excited when they get a new book. So much of what we do at this age is about helping them fall in love with reading. This program makes that possible."
In a world where not every child has access to books at home, the Tiny Turner and Page Turner programs are more than thoughtful initiatives. They’re lifelines—turning pages, and turning points, for the future.