GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — Western Colorado Pediatric Associates throws in a dose of literacy at its well-child check-ups.

In fact, the doctors' office is doing such a good job promoting literacy that it was chosen from among 4,654 pediatric practices nationwide to receive the Richard Robinson award for successful participation in Reach Out and Read, a national nonprofit organization that promotes early literacy and school readiness.

Reach Out participants gives books to children and advice to parents about the importance of reading aloud at regular pediatric check-ups.

“Our office has been giving out books and talking to parents about the importance of reading since 1999,” said Cathie Clark, a Reach Out and Read coordinator and Healthy Steps Specialist.

“We're currently giving out 600 books a month,” for ages six months to 5 years, she said.

Four days a week, Emma Lou Hastings, also known as “Nana” reads to children in the Western Colorado Pediatric Associates' lobby.

“It's wonderful; and she's wonderful,” Clark said. “She's probably one of the reasons we got the award.”

Western Colorado Pediatric Associates' office manager Beth Scheer will travel to Washington, D.C., in March to receive both the award and a gift of 1,000 books to give away to young patients.

The award is named for Richard Robinson, president and CEO of Scholastic, Inc.

“This clinic sets the standard for an outstanding Reach Out and Read program,” said Carol Federman, northwest regional coordinator for Reach Out and Read Colorado.

According to the organization, research shows participating families read together more often, and their children enter kindergarten with larger vocabularies, stronger language skills, and a six-month developmental advantage.

For more information on Reach Out and Read visit www.reachoutandread.org.