A new national survey commissioned by Nemours Children’s Health reveals a growing literacy crisis among the nation’s youngest learners—one that teachers say they’re unequipped to address, and which could carry serious long-term consequences for children’s health.

The survey, conducted by The Harris Poll, gathered insights from over 300 U.S. teachers certified in grades K-3. Among the findings: 84% of teachers expressed concern about the reading skills of students entering their classrooms, and on average, only half of their students arrive reading at grade level.

“Investing in early childhood education, particularly in literacy, is one of the most effective strategies to improve long-term health outcomes,” said Dr. Kara Odom Walker, Executive Vice President and Chief Population Health Officer at Nemours Children’s Health. “These survey results show just how urgently educators need effective tools so every child can build strong reading skills and a strong foundation for lifelong health.”

Teachers Sound the Alarm

The survey paints a stark picture of classroom reality:

• Only 26% of teachers said they are highly satisfied with the literacy tools they have.

• Veteran educators were the least satisfied—only 19% of teachers with 10 or more years of experience expressed satisfaction.

• Over 90% see value in multi-sensory, screen-free learning options.

• 41% report current programs lack engaging content.

Teachers also emphasized the need for personalized support. While small-group and one-on-one instruction is a proven method to help struggling readers, just 55% of teachers said they can offer it consistently. The average time spent on such instruction: 30 minutes or less per day.

Literacy as a Public Health Issue

Experts warn that early reading struggles aren’t just academic—they’re tied to lifelong health risks. Nearly 90% of brain development occurs before age five, and children not reading at grade level by first grade have just a 10% chance of catching up by fourth grade.

Those early literacy gaps can compound over time, contributing to mental health challenges, chronic illness, and reduced educational and economic outcomes. According to the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress, reading scores are at their lowest levels in more than 30 years.

A Research-Based Solution: Reading BrightStart!

In response, Nemours Children’s Health developed Reading BrightStart!, a comprehensive, evidence-based literacy program serving children from infancy through first grade. The program includes:

• A multi-sensory, screen-free curriculum

• Educator training and professional development

• A family-friendly website with reading resources and a preschool screener

Since its launch, the program has:

• Reached over 295,000 children

• Trained more than 5,260 educators

• Operated in 38 states

• Helped two-thirds of struggling children catch up to their peers in repeated studies

“At Nemours Children’s, we’re committed to Whole Child Health,” said Allison Gertel-Rosenberg, Vice President and Chief Policy and Prevention Officer at Nemours Children’s Health. “This survey shows that educators recognize the urgent need for stronger literacy support, but it will take commitment from school boards, policymakers, and communities to get it right. Investing in early literacy isn’t just about better education—it’s about better health for generations to come.”

For more information about Reading BrightStart!, visit www.readingbrightstart.org.

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