United Way of Greater Nashville is collecting bedtime book kits for children to help them develop healthy habits and improve literacy skills that will last a lifetime.

For young children, bedtime is about more than just going to sleep. It’s a time to talk, imagine and connect with those we love most. Reading with children—from even the earliest ages—for at least 20 minutes a night is proven to increase crucial language development skills, critical thinking abilities and set children up for future reading success.

These bedtime kits will go to children ages birth to five who need them most.

 

Here’s How You Can Help

Make a kit (or several!). Gather your family and stop by your favorite local book store. Together, you can make a difference in the life of a child in need. The Bedtime Books one-pager lists the required items to include. After you register, a United Way representative will be in touch to provide you with drawstring bags to place your items in.

Donate to the cause. You don’t have to run a collection drive to be a part of Bedtime Books. A simple $35 donation provides a kit to one child in our community.

Host a collection drive in your workplace or community group. Encourage your employees to purchase new children’s books from our list of pre-selected books, along with toothbrushes, toothpaste and plush toys. See more details in our How-To Guide. Download an Item Collection Sign here.

Kit Drop-off: Kits should be dropped off April 5 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at United Way’s office at 250 Venture Circle, Nashville, TN 37228. Staff members will be outside to greet you.