Early literacy activities are certainly fun—but also valuable. For parents and caregivers who are already reading, writing, talking, singing, and playing with their children, offering tips might seem superfluous. But many aren’t aware that simple, everyday activities—such as listing different food items in the grocery store—can benefit their child’s early language and literacy development and … Continue reading The Upside to Asides
Informal caregivers may include grandparents, cousins, nannies, shift-swapping parents, and older siblings. They may provide part-time or full-time care. Some are paid; many are not. Ultimately, without FFN care, it would be difficult or impossible for many parents to work. In my home state of Colorado, formal childcare is in short supply. The options aren’t … Continue reading Inclusive Early Literacy
Research has established a clear connection between the ability to read and the capacity to learn other content and do well in school. Studies also show that reading for pleasure results in several benefits for youth, such as better reading achievement and more self-confidence as a reader. Yet, reading for fun has become less common … Continue reading The Secret, Simple Literacy Solution Every Library Needs
Meridian Library District’s (MLD) Tiny Library—a brick-red, 320-square-foot repurposed shipping container—stands out. As families cross the parking lot to the YMCA and spot the new building, we’ve heard kids ask “Can we go today?” and adults remark “This is so neat!” The Tiny Library was born out of the desire partner with other community organizations … Continue reading Tiny but Mighty
In particular, Diamant-Cohen has reenergized her program to speak to the current climate with a focus on inclusivity, a discovery on the ugly history of nursery rhymes, and easier-to-follow templates that librarians can use to create their own versions of her popular series. She also updated notes on using digital technologies, STEM (and what that … Continue reading Re-energizing Mother Goose on the Loose
Many studies show that when parents get involved with early literacy, a child is better prepared for school—and life. That’s why North Liberty (Iowa) Community Library developed a monthly podcast aimed at busy, expecting families. Caregivers can learn about the literacy skills kids need to succeed—such as phonological awareness, letter knowledge, and print motivation—whenever and … Continue reading A Podcast That Delivers
That’s why, in 1989, Chicago Public Library (CPL) Children’s Librarian Elizabeth McChesney (now CPL’s director of children’s services and family engagement) visited a local laundromat to introduce herself to families. How she responded to what she saw there would help change the landscape of children’s literacy initiatives for decades to come. “What I saw was … Continue reading Front-Loading Literacy
Conceived in 1996 by author Pat Mora, with support from Reforma and the Association for Library Service to Children, Día is a celebration of children, literacy, and diversity. This year will mark 20 years that San Francisco Public Library (SFPL) has been proudly supporting Día in our community, with the goal of connecting kids to … Continue reading Spreading ‘Bookjoy’
More than 40 current and former New York Public Library staffers and their friends helped create NYPL Sings! Songs for Our Children, an album that has found a ready audience in fellow librarians, early childhood educators, parents, and kids. Here, three of the album’s chief contributors explain how this project came to be. The idea … Continue reading Sing a Song of … Early Literacy
The report is a joint effort of the Association for Library Service to Children and the Public Library Association, and was compiled by lead researcher Susan B. Neuman, professor of childhood education and literacy development at the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University, along with coauthors Naomi Moland, professorial … Continue reading New Findings for Every Child Ready to Read in Public Libraries
Reynolds released his seventh novel, Miles Morales: Spider-Man (Marvel), on August 1, just days before visiting Atlanta to speak to a packed house of librarians about black boys, literacy, and vulnerability at the National Conference of African American Librarians on August 10. While preparing his remarks, he tuned in to an episode of the Steve … Continue reading Spider-Man, Inspiration, and Literacy
Project VIEWS2 is a study that focuses on early childhood literacy. It’s a program that’s complementary to Every Child Ready to Read, although the trio strongly emphasized that VIEWS2 is a distinct program. VIEWS2 emphasizes intention and community, and can be used as a planning tool or guide for librarians to build from. “When you are intentional … Continue reading Supporting Early Literacy with Supercharged Storytimes
