Did you know that reading to your child is one of the most powerful ways to boost his or her brain power? The simple and enjoyable act of sharing books helps your child learn pre-reading skills such as understanding the sounds letters make, developing a bigger vocabulary, and building background knowledge—all important skills that help prepare your child for learning and entering kindergarten.
The New Hope and Solebury Library’s 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program is a fun, exciting, and free way to start your child on the path to success! Any child ages birth to five years can participate. Just follow these steps:
1. Use your reading log to keep track of your progress. Write down each title read with your child on your reading record. To download a reading log, click here.
2. Every book counts. Even if your child wants to hear the same book again and again, you can count it each time. You can also count the books your child hears in storytime, in daycare, or preschool, or with a friend or family member, as long as your child listens to the entire book.
3. 100-Book Milestones: Each time you read 100 books, bring your reading record to the library to receive a special prize. Take home a new reading record for your next 100 books.
4. 1,000 Books: You did it! Come celebrate at the library, see your child’s name place on a leaf of the 1,000 Book Tree of Knowledge!
5. Keep on reading: Don’t stop at 1,000! Keep on reading together;
There’s more learning ahead!
Singing songs, saying rhymes, telling stories, and playing with your child are all great ways to build literacy skills. Visit the library often for free programs and to find great books to share with your child!