BACKGROUND AND IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES: The TC Read Aloud Challenge 2023 is an interactive event designed to leverage the power of storytelling to promote smoke-free environments within families. This initiative, initiated by LINKAR INISIATIF supported by TC LPAI in collaboration with the "Read Aloud Yuk" community and other partners such as Let's Read Indonesia, Litara Foundation, and the Indonesian Ministry of Education and Culture Language Agency, aims to educate and engage families on the dangers of smoking and the importance of establishing smoke-free homes.
INTERVENTION OR RESPONSE: During the 21-day "Read Aloud Challenge 2023," participants selected a digital book from a collection designed by LINKAR INISIATIF, which promotes tobacco-free living through arts. Families read their chosen book aloud, reflected on its message regarding the harms of tobacco, and recorded this session. These recordings were then uploaded to social media to facilitate engagement, allowing followers to interact by liking, commenting, and sharing. This method effectively combined reading, reflection, and social media engagement to spread awareness and encourage dialogue about tobacco control within the community.
RESULTS AND IMPACT: The "Read Aloud Challenge 2023" saw impressive participation, with over 800 families actively engaging in the event, demonstrating substantial community involvement. Surveys and feedback collected after the challenge showed that there was a notable increase in knowledge about the harms of tobacco among participants. Furthermore, parents reported a heightened readiness to enforce smoke-free rules within their homes. The initiative also garnered positive media coverage, which played a crucial role in elevating community awareness and bolstering support for ongoing tobacco control measures.
CONCLUSIONS: The Read-Aloud Challenge 2023 exemplifies how literacy and public health advocacy can be intertwined to foster healthier communities. Through the power of reading and community collaboration, this initiative has made significant strides in promoting smoke-free environments, marking a step forward in public health education tailored for families.