Welcome to Read from the Start

Children who grow up hearing stories and looking at books will fall in love with language.

READ from the START is a reading program that teaches parents and caregivers the joy and benefits of reading to children from birth to five years old. Local groups sponsor READ from the START in areas throughout Missouri. The two-part sessions are facilitated through certified Discussion Leaders and filled with learning opportunities for parents and caregivers. Parents who attend RFTS take home seven new children’s books. READ from the START is free to all participants.

Three ways you can get involved:

Attend a RFTS ProgramBecome a Community SponsorBecome a Discussion Leader

READ from the START is highly acclaimed across Missouri by educators, administrators, directors, children’s librarians, and organizations.

  • Parents
  • Head Starts
  • PATs
  • Alternative high schools/PAT Teens
  • Womens’ shelters
  • Child abuse prevention programs
  • Libraries
  • YWCAs