Chicago Early Literacy Programs
Building Joy & Confidence in Readers, One Classroom at a Time
Based in Evidence, Fueled by Joy.
SitStayRead is advancing the literacy skills of K-2 students through an engaging, evidence-based curriculum, trained volunteers, and Certified Reading Assistance Dogs.
Watch this awesome video to see what SitStayRead is all about and to hear some of the creative dedications students have written for their books!
About SitStayRead
Supporting Chicago’s Youngest Readers
SitStayRead helps young Chicago students build critical reading skills to transition from learning to read to reading to learn.
We’re focused on serving neighborhoods where a majority of families face economic hardship, and many children score below the national reading average.
By partnering with schools, libraries, and dedicated volunteers, we create joyful learning experiences that strengthen skills, increase attendance, and inspire children to see themselves as capable, successful readers.
When we began the program, we saw a notable increase in smiles, excitement to read, and of course, the delight in petting the cutest dogs around.
Our students’ eyes lit up when books were read in both English and Spanish, showcasing the deep appreciation for having a bilingual educator providing access to literature. Thank you, SitStayRead, for this amazing opportunity.
Principal Yadira Bernadoc
Pilsen Community Academy
Reading Programs in Chicago
K-2 Chicago Early Literacy Programs
We’re engaging with young readers across the greater Chicago area through ongoing and one-time classroom visits, family literacy events, and Chicago Public Library programs.
Our bilingual, evidence-based curriculum incorporates social-emotional learning and helps students learn to read in a fun, engaging way.
Want to Get Involved?
Help advance children’s literacy by donating or volunteering with SitStayRead.
Volunteer
Volunteers help us further the SitStayRead mission. Whether you’re interested in volunteering solo, with your dog, or as part of a group, we look forward to welcoming you to the pack
Donate
Your support directly impacts the young readers of Chicago. From one-time donations, tribute gifts, planned giving, or recurring donations, there are countless ways to support SitStayRead.
Thank You to Our Generous Donors
At-Home Family Resources
Supporting Literacy Beyond the Classroom
Continue the fun at home with read-aloud videos, printable activity sheets, and SitStayRead books.
Through our family resources, we’re bridging the gap between in-school and at-home reading, helping parents and young learners build more confidence.
It’s really fulfilling, because you know you’re making a difference in these children’s lives.
You know you’re helping them with a skill set that is going to really affect the rest of their lives in a positive way.”
Harmony Mallow & Dallas
Dog Team
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn More About SitStayRead
Looking for something else?
How does SitStayRead improve literacy Outcomes?
We focus on early literacy and social-emotional learning in small group settings. Teachers report stable or increased attendance on program days, and students gain confidence reading aloud. Our programs are structured, research-informed, and designed to support classroom goals.
Developed in partnership with local educators and faculty from the University of Illinois at Chicago Center for Literacy, the University of Chicago, DePaul University, and Northeastern University, our bilingual (English and Spanish) curriculum helps students learn to read in a fun, engaging way.
Program staff regularly review curricula for each level and are currently revising the second grade curricula with a lens focused on inclusion and belonging.
How do you choose what communities you serve?
SitStayRead provides Chicago early literacy programs in neighborhoods where the student population is typically 90% from low-income households and 60% of third graders score below the national reading average. There is currently a waitlist for our literacy programs, however we partner with Chicago Public Schools, Chicago Public Library branches, and community organizations to reach more students both in school and through family literacy events.
What makes SitStayRead different from other literacy nonprofits?
At SitStayRead, we combine structured literacy enrichment with social-emotional learning and the calming presence of Certified Reading Assistance Dogs. With over 22 years of experience, we focus on relationship-building, measurable classroom impact, and joyful learning experiences that help children see themselves as confident readers.
How can I support or get involved?
There are many ways to support our mission.
Volunteering: Through our Dog Teams and Book Buddies, volunteers can join SitStayRead in 6-8 week classroom residencies, as well as one-time visits and public events. Volunteers do not need a dog to participate! Learn more about volunteering.
Donating: There are many ways to raise and many ways to donate.
You can give as a one-time or recurring donor, donate through a donor-advised fund, make a tribute gift, sponsor an event, or host a book drive. We also welcome corporate partnerships and matching gifts. Every contribution supports literacy programming for Chicago children.
Support Early Literacy Programs
Help Us Support Chicago’s Youngest Readers
Your time, generosity, and partnership helps children build the skills and confidence they need to thrive in school and beyond.