September is National Library Card Sign-Up month – rightly so. Schools are open, but the library card sign-up campaign should be a reminder for parents and caregivers of babies and toddlers that it’s never to early for children to visit libraries. Their adults can get books, ideas and maybe gain an idea or two to share with babies and toddlers.

A recent article about a library in Washington (state) reminded me of the rich resources that virtually all libraries have to encourage and support early . 

It’s good to be reminded of the power of interacting with even the youngest child. And it’s not difficult, for these are easy-to-do, anywhere-anytime activities – reading, telling a story, narrating what’s going on around you, talking, singing, and playing – that stimulate early language and literacy development. 

Of course, libraries are a good place to start. They have books, programs, and other resources for parents and caregivers of young children.

Ideas abound. Take a look at Reading Tips for Parents of Babies, then look at a booklist or two to find some books to share with the baby in your life. 

Then visit your library to browse, borrow, or try out the books – but first make sure that you have signed up for your library card.

About the Author

Maria Salvadore is Reading Rockets’ consultant for children’s literature and literacy. Maria curates our themed booklists and writes the blog, Page by Page, which explores the best ways to use kids’ books both inside and outside of the classroom. She leads parent workshops for Ready To Learn (RTL) at WETA Public Broadcasting in Washington, D.C. She has also taught children’s literature at the University of Maryland, reviewed books for School Library Journal, and has served on various book award committees, including the Boston Globe/Horn Book Awards, Golden Kite, and the Caldecott Committee.

Publication Date
September 23, 2015

Related Topics

Children’s Books, Libraries, Reading Aloud
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