"Count on Reading" by Joanie Welch

What can you count on your whole life long?

A key that opens a door so strong.

Behind that door is a store of knowledge.

We've got it now, needn't wait for college.

What is the answer, what is the key?

It's R-E-A-D-I-N-G!

When we were tiny, big books we would hold.


We couldn't read them, but they were gold.


Our parents read to us, and that gave us pleasure.


Those words on the page were such a treasure.


They taught us some words, they gave the first key.


To R-E-A-D-I-N-G!

Then off to school we went with expectation.


We learned that reading is the key to education.


We read for fun, and we read to explore.


Our teachers urged us to read even more.


They taught us to research and write what we see


From R-E-A-D-I-N-G!

When we're older, we'll still read every day.


For people who matter have shown us the way.


Our parents, our teachers all love to read.


They've encouraged us and planted a seed.


That seed will grow and will form a tree


Of R-E-A-D-I-N-G!

So, if you're a teacher, pass along the joy


Of unlocking reading for a young girl or boy.


When those letters form words that a child can read,


That spells success, and it fills a need.


It opens doors that you may never see


To R-E-A-D-I-N-G!

What can we count on, once we have the key?


An open door where the mind soars free.


Books to read are a child's greatest treasure.


They're a gift of love beyond all measure.


So pass along the gift and all children will be


R-E-A-D-I-N-G!