1000 Books before Kindergarten
Reading to your child is one of the most powerful ways to boost his or her brain power! The simple act of sharing books helps your child learn pre-reading skills that help prepare your child for learning to read and entering kindergarten.
Carnegie Public Library 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.
Did you know?
​
-
Children who are read to at an early age are more successful in school.
-
Reading aloud to infants and children encourages social, emotional, and cognitive development.
-
The ability to learn language skills is greatest before age six.
-
Children who are read to have bigger vocabularies when they enter school.
​
​
Just follow these steps:
​
1) Register: Sign up in the Children’s Department . Pick up program materials at the Children’s Desk.
​
2) Track Your Reading: Fill in a circle with a sticker and have the adult put their initials in the box under the sticker.
​
3) Every Book Counts: Even if your child wants to hear the same book again and again, you may count it each time. You may also count the books your child hears in story time, in daycare or preschool, or with a friend or family member, as long as your child listens to the entire book.
​
4) 200 Book Milestones: Bring your reading record to the library to receive a special reward each time you read 200 books.
​
5) 1,000 Books: You did it! Come celebrate at the library and see your child’s name placed on the 1,000 Book Photo Frame and receive a reward.
Visit Carnegie Public Library often for free programs that are fun and educational for your little one and to find great books to share with your child.
​
One thousand books may seem like a lot but if you read just one book a night you’ll meet your goal in less than 3 years. If you read three books a night you could reach your goal in just one year!
​
Ask our friendly staff for suggestions—we’re here to help you on your journey to 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten!
Tips for reading to young children
​
Bring the story to life with different voices and facial expressions.
​
Hold your child on your lap or beside you.
​
Point out things in the pictures, and ask your child questions about the story.
​
Stay flexible. It's OK to skip pages, just look at the pictures, or not finish the book in one sitting.
​
Keep books close at hand for sharing any time.
​
Children love to hear their favorite stories over and over again. The repetition helps them gain important literacy skills.
​
Courtesy 1000 Books Foundation