FOSTERING EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND POSITIVE BEHAVIOR
About the Grow Through Reading Program
GROW – Guiding Resiliency through Opportunities of Well-Being
Grow Through Reading is more than just a reading program; it helps children thrive both academically and emotionally. Based on their research, Drs. AnnMarie Gunn and Susan Bennett with their team designed this flexible curriculum for parents, caregivers, teachers, and childcare professionals to support nurturing empathy, confidence, and connection.
Why Choose Grow Through Reading?
Grow Through Reading is a research-based program that has proven effective in enhancing children’s social-emotional learning. Our pilot study at the University of South Florida showed significant improvements in students’ SEL vocabulary and reading achievement, highlighting the power of high-quality literature in fostering meaningful discussions and emotional growth.
For elementary School
60% of 2nd Graders Read Below a Proficient Level

Reading Education University of South Florida
“High-quality literature fosters meaningful discussions that not only improve reading but also build emotional resilience.”

– Dr. AnnMarie Alberton Gunn, University of South Florida
ENGAGING, STANDARDS-BASED LESSON PLANS FOR SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING
What’s Included In Each Lesson?

Our lesson plans incorporate a range of educational frameworks, including Common Core and CASEL, and provide everything you need for a meaningful, interactive learning experience—featuring picture books, targeted vocabulary, and engaging activities that support emotional and academic growth.
Read Aloud Selection with Lesson Plan Includes:
BUILDING ESSENTIAL SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL SKILLS THROUGH READING
Five Core Frameworks for Social-Emotional Learning
The 5 Core CASEL Frameworks provide a proven foundation for developing critical social-emotional skills in children. By focusing on self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making, Grow Through Reading supports a comprehensive approach to emotional growth and academic success.
EQUIPPING PARENTS, TEACHERS, AND CAREGIVERS FOR SUCCESS
Who Can Implement Grow Through Reading’s Curriculum?
Grow Through Reading is designed for parents, teachers, childcare educators, and caregivers who want to promote the social-emotional development of children through engaging, research-based activities and resources.








