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Soar Into Early Literacy with the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey
About Blog Post
Jan 2, 2018
by Pressroom
Expand your child’s love of literacy with the help of your local Library.
In January 2018, the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey (SCLSNJ) will launch SCLSNJ SOARING, (Supportive Opportunities for Achieving Reading in the Next Generation), in support of early literacy.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), more than one in three children in the United States start kindergarten without the language skills they require to learn to read. The AAP recommends reading to children from birth to support early literacy.
SCLSNJ SOARING is designed to help parents take advantage of the Library’s early childhood programming and resources; and to explore how to replicate those strategies at home.
"As librarians, we know many parents struggle with teaching their school-age children to read. We have found that there isn't a widespread awareness of the importance of early exposure to picture books right from infancy and through the toddler years. Sharing books in this pre-literacy period provides the foundation for a smoother transition to independent literacy later in life,” said Meredith Hoyer, SCLSNJ youth services department supervisor.
Icons created by the SCLSNJ team will help parents efficiently discover age appropriate storytimes, activities, and resources when using their Library branch. Hatchlings - an icon of a small bird popping out of an egg - indicate appropriateness for children birth to 18 months; Chicks - an icon of the same small bird facing forward - indicate appropriateness for children 18 months to 3 years; and Songbirds - an icon of that bird now spreading its wings and taking flight - indicate appropriateness for children 3 years to kindergarten.
“SCLSNJ is dedicated to supporting our youngest patrons’ educational growth through storytimes, programs, and other resources. SCLSNJ SOARING packages all of our resources, from the traditional storytimes to new initiatives like ‘1000 Books Before Kindergarten’ and our ‘Ready Rosie’ service. The most significant brain growth occurs in early childhood, so we are excited to provide enrichment aimed at these exploring minds,” said Jessica Trujillo, SCLSNJ youth services manager.
Explore the following resources and databases that support SOARING:
- 1000 Books Before Kindergarten is an initiative designed to encourage parent-child bonding through reading. For more information and to sign up, visit your local branch or logon to: sclsnj.org/1KBBK.
- Storytime Theme Kits provide a convenient inclusive package of materials to support a variety of popular subjects. Each unique kit includes a combination of 10 items including books, DVDs, and/or music packaged in a tote bag.
- Picture Book Database is a resource for anyone who enjoys picture books with an in-depth look at illustrated reads.
- Ready Rosie sends short videos via email or text with tips on how to enhance learning in everyday situations.
- TumbleBooks Library presents animated, talking versions of picture books and includes songs, games, and videos.
- Launchpads offer fun and educational games and applications for ages 3-10 on preloaded tablets that may be borrowed from the Library.
- Storytimes & Programs at our branches incorporate singing, talking, reading, writing, and playing to help children develop vocabulary, letter awareness, and listening skills.
- Play Spaces at our branches offer toys and materials for engaging imagination and language through dramatic play.