Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick Episode 375 - Tony Kriz, "From Trauma to Triumph: Literacy's Role in Healing"
Nov 24, 2025
Tony Kriz, a spiritual entrepreneur and co-author of "Read," discusses the urgent need for childhood literacy and the profound effects of trauma on development. He highlights alarming literacy statistics and connects illiteracy to societal issues like poverty and incarceration. Kriz emphasizes the crucial role of caring adults, advocating for community and church involvement to support children in reading. Inspiring stories and practical volunteering opportunities show how mentorship can change lives, making literacy a critical pathway to healing and justice.
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The Fourth-Grade Literacy Threshold
- If children don't learn to read by fourth grade, they are statistically very unlikely to catch up and will face limited opportunities.
- Tony Kriz links fourth-grade literacy to long-term outcomes like dropping out, incarceration, and reliance on public services.
Churches Partner With Schools
- Churches should partner with local under-resourced schools and commit volunteers to help children read one hour a week.
- Tony Kriz recommends one church partner per school to ensure every child reads to grade level by fourth grade.
Yoga Book Turned A Troubled Kid Into A Leader
- Jeff volunteered at a nearby Head Start and struggled with a rambunctious boy who even slapped him.
- A children's yoga book turned the boy into a leader and created a lasting connection and classroom acceptance.
