Early Language & Literacy KnowledgeBase

This KnowledgeBase archive includes content and external links that were accurate and relevant as of September 30, 2019.

The Early Language and Literacy KnowledgeBase is an online resource supporting language and literacy development in early learners from birth through age eight. Its focus is to support parents and caregivers in helping early learners with their language and literacy development, and teachers in enhancing their instruction for early learners from pre-Kindergarten through Grade 3.

Sub-task 1: Access to Print

resources

CHECKLISTS

100 Picture Books to Read in Kindergarten

This link to the West Bloomfield Township (Michigan) Public Library website provides a list of 100 picture books to read in Kindergarten. This list was developed as part of the library's Grow Up Reading initiative. Parents of kindergartners and Kindergarten teachers may find this list useful.

TOOLS

Best Books for Kids

This link to the Common Sense Media website provides a list of books recommended for children. The list is segmented by age groups. Educators and caregivers of early learners will be interested in the 2-4, 5-6, and 7-8 ages groups. As noted at its website, "Common Sense Media is dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in a world of media and technology."

Bookfinder

This link to the PBS Parents website provides a database of books for children from babies through third graders. Parents are provided with a list of books after selecting the age of the children and theme of the book.

PRACTICAL TIPS

Choosing a Child's Book

This Reading Rockets article provides suggestions on choosing books for children, from babies to age eight. Parents, caregivers, and educators of early learners may find these suggestions helpful when choosing books for early learners.

REFERENCES

Books for Kids Foundation

The mission of the Books for Kids Foundation is to promote literacy among all children with a special emphasis on low-income and at-risk preschool-aged children. Books for Kids creates libraries, donates books, and partners with literacy programs to develop the critical early foundation and skills which young children need to be successful in life.

Giving Children Access to Print Materials Improves Reading Performance

This link to the Reading is Fundamental website reports on an analysis of how give children access to print materials impacts reading performance. The analysis was commissioned by Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) and conducted by Learning Point Associates.

Reach Out and Read

This link is to the Reach Out and Read website. As noted at the website, Reach Out and Read is an evidence-based nonprofit organization that promotes early literacy and school readiness in pediatric exam rooms nationwide by giving new books to children and advice to parents about the importance of reading aloud. Though intended for parents and pediatricians, educators of early learners may find it useful to encourage local pediatricians to participate in this program.

Reading is Fundamental

"Reading Is Fundamental, Inc. prepares and motivates children to read by delivering free books and literacy resources to those children and families who need them most." The link provided to the parents page offers reading materials organized by age group.