About Us

Learn With Us

R.E.A.D. (Reading Enrichment and Development) is an innovative early reading program designed for children at various literacy levels.

Starting from 4 months old, children join for an extension of their initial reading experiences—being read to while seated in their caregiver's lap. Older children, up to five years old, engage in higher-level understanding of activities which further develop their pre-reading skills. Adults such as parents, grandparents, and caregivers attend and participate alongside their children, learning techniques to use at home and building bonds through the activities.

Reading Skills

Build a strong foundation for independent reading through tailored, age-appropriate instruction.

Creative Play

Movement, music, stories, and art encourage exploration and self-expression through hands-on learning.

Daily Language

Books and language are naturally integrated into routines through themed activities and imaginative play.

Our Mission

Our objective is to create an encouraging and supportive environment attuned to child development. Classes provide opportunities for children and their parents to explore language and the enjoyment of reading. We aim to instill a lifelong love of books and equip your child with the confidence and motivation essential for becoming proficient readers.

Our Teachers

Jenifer Kelly-Strauss
is the owner and director of R.E.A.D. Nola. Jenifer graduated from Newcomb College/Tulane University where she received a B.S in Psychology and a teaching certification. For 14 years, she worked as a Pre-K teacher at Isidore Newman School in New Orleans. After retiring from her own classroom, she  worked as a substitute teacher for children ranging from six weeks old to 5th grade. Jenifer attended R.E.A.D. classes with her own children, now ages 20 and 14, and after her youngest child went to school, she began working here. In August 2022, she acquired the program to continue fostering a love of books among young children. Jenifer continues her education in early childhood through workshops, webinars, and reading.

Marilyn Levin
is the former director of READ New Orleans, has specialized expertise in early literacy. She taught kindergarten at Isidore Newman School in New Orleans for 14 years and founded the Isidore Newman Summer Reading Program. R.E.A.D. was established in June 2002. Marilyn loves teaching R.E.A.D. classes so much, that she has remained a teacher!

A Typical Class Experience

  • Themed Learning

    All classes follow a consistent format, with content adapted to the sophistication level of the age group. Each session revolves around a theme that varies weekly. Previous themes include (bears, dinosaurs, transportation, pirates, and Earth Day). The theme is incorporated into all activities, including reading, acting, singing, dancing, games, and snacks.

  • Shared Activities

    Classes begin with parents, children, and staff gathered on the rug for a shared reading experience. Activities include greeting our mascot, Willoughby, finding their "spot" on the alphabet rug (the first letter of the child's name), and reading a nursery rhyme and a theme-related book. Music and movement keep children engaged and maintain the playful aspect of learning.

  • Explore & Wrap Up

    While the first part of the class is primarily teacher-directed, the second half occurs in the adjacent literacy-based Playroom. This room allows children to select activities based on their interests and natural curiosity. We then reconvene in the first room to conclude with a snack, another theme-related book, and a closing activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Each child is unique, and responses to the class may vary. Some children may prefer to observe, while others may actively participate. There is no right or wrong reaction. Over time, a shy child may become more involved. Even if your child is not visibly active during class, they are absorbing information—children often exhibit what they have learned at home. Your child might surprise you by showing interest in a book or singing a song from class. Regardless of their level of participation, they are gaining a crucial appreciation for reading.

  • This class aims to foster positive connections between you, your child, and reading. Children remember moments where they felt happy and close to their parents. Incorporating books into these special times helps children associate reading with positive feelings. As a parent, remain mindful that you are your child's first and most influential teacher, and our classes rely on active parental involvement. If you enjoy the activities and participate enthusiastically, your child is likely to have a more enjoyable experience. Additionally, you may learn effective strategies to use when reading to your child at home.

  • Children can check out backpacks containing books, toys, CDs, or DVDs related to the specific theme, which can be exchanged for a new backpack after each class.

  • A maximum refund of 50% of the remaining tuition is provided if your child is unable to attend or complete the session. If a class you enrolled in is canceled by R.E.A.D., alternate options or a refund will be offered. Make-up classes are available for missed sessions.