ABC7 Chicago: Bear Down to Read
/
Nov 14, 2025 / 11:00 AM CST
Bear Down to Read celebrates the importance of male role models in education, and the value of Early Learning Programs.
At Chicago Youth Centers, we actively promote the participation of fathers, father-figures, and male role models in children’s education and development, recognizing their importance in preparing children for school and life success.
Why it matters:
Children with engaged families are twice as likely to earn higher grades and test scores.
Family reading routines are linked to a 34% increase in early language and vocabulary development.
Family participation in learning activities at home can improve student achievement by up to 50 percentile points.