Birth to Five
Get your child off to a smart start with our board books, picture books and early literacy programs and events. As a child's first teacher, parents and caregivers are key to building reading readiness in ages birth to age 5.
- It's never too early to read to your baby. Try rhymes like "Mary Had a Little Lamb," a birthday card, a cereal box, even your tweets. The sounds children hear are what matter.
- Introduce simple pictures and storybooks as your baby grows. Shapes, colors and sounds will delight. Try picture books for songs that you can sing together.
- Change your voice for different characters in a book. Help your child learn the characters through your voice.
- As you read, move your finger to show how the words move across the page.
- Point out people and objects on the page. Ask your child questions like "Where is the cat hiding?" before or after you read the page.
- Read the same book over and over—it helps children feel secure.
- Visit the library often and let children select their own books.
- Get your child their own library card.
- Make a special time for reading aloud—after dinner, before bed, anytime. Talk calmly and take your time. Let your child know this is important to you.
- Let your children see you reading and talk about what you read. They want to imitate you.
New Children's Titles
Board Books for Babies
Bright, interactive board books are a great way to start reading to your child with. Choose from touch-and-feel, lift-the-flap, stories in rhyme and more. Browse our collection.
Story Time
Play time is learn time. Bring your child to a Story Time event to hear simple stories and play word games that teach pre-reading skills.
Storyville
Storyville is an interactive early literacy learning center designed for children ages birth to 5 and their caregivers. Plan your visit now.