Another secret behind the success of the Little by Little Program is the passion and dedication of our staff. With the passion and support of WIC staff, the Little by Little Program succeeds in changing the WIC culture so that WIC centers that participate in the Little by Little Program are seen as “learning places” by staff and WIC families. The Little by Little Program also changes home environments such that more books are present and reading occurs more regularly.
LITTLE BY LITTLE PROGRAM STAFF INSIGHT
Heidy O.Long Beach WIC St. Mary's, Staff Member
What I value most about the Little by Little Program services we provide at the City of Long Beach WIC Program is that parents learn the importance of incorporating reading into their everyday lives. Parents LOVE the Little by Little Program in addition to receiving the WIC benefits. Every time parents come with their children for their WIC appointment, the little ones look forward to getting a new book. I am confident that the information we share with the parents about early literacy will translate to optimal learning and bright futures for their children.
"The Little by Little Program has been far the best program to be brought in to WIC. I love how this program is preparing our future generations. I was able to witness a child who wanted her mother to read to her as they waited for their checks. As her mother read to her, I could see that the child was so engaged in the book. This made me realize the impact that this program is contributing to our community by bringing families together, as well as encouraging children to learn."
Little by Little Program Staff Member
"My experience with the Little by Little Program has been wonderful. Parents and children come into a WIC site eager for information, not only about healthy eating, but also on reading and how to better prepare their children for school! One mom told me that her child constantly wants to read the book we gave him a few months ago. Every night, he asks his mom to read him the book. He loves listening to stories and looking along with her in the book. I am glad that this program is instilling the love of reading in these children at such a young age!"
Little by Little Program Staff Member
"I helped a single dad today who just started reading aloud to his almost 3-year-old son a few weeks ago, and has been trying to read almost every night at bedtime. He shared for the first time last night that the child asked for him to read. This dad was so touched that his son is looking forward to their reading times now."