Please note that the bottom TumbleBook link will only provide you with one book!
Click on the top TumbleBook Library link for the full catalog.
Click on the Storyline Online link to listen to some phenomenal storytellers!
Welcome caregivers!
On behalf of the Flower Memorial Library and the 1000 Books Foundation, we would like to introduce you to and invite you to participate in this free program by setting a goal to read 1000 books with the children in your care before they start Kindergarten. Studies have shown that reading with your child provides a great opportunity for bonding. Reading together is fun and will create lifelong memories for both of you.
What is the 1000 Books Program?
The program is simple—just grab a book and read with your infant, toddler, or preschooler. When you think of reading 1000 books before Kindergarten, it can feel overwhelming. This programs helps you see that it really is a manageable goal. If you start with reading one book each night, you are already up to 365 after one year. Add in another year and you are already at 730. At this pace, you will have met the goal in under three years! Even if your child is already a little older, you can still meet the goal and the program provides tips and incentives for the whole family to be involved!
How do we participate?
Just grab a book and read with your infant, toddler, or preschooler. Books do not have to be from the library but we recommend taking advantage of our wide variety! :) We are sure you will end up repeating books because most young children crave the repetition and they still count! It’s each book you read, not individual titles.
Perseverance is key! Keep track of the books that you read with your child. There are many different ways to do this. Some examples include:
- Using one of the convenient log sheets we provide. Feel free to help yourself to as many as you need throughout the course of the program.
- Have your child decorate a spiral notebook to use as a log of their reading. This is a fun keepsake to look back upon!
- Sign up for a Beanstack account through the library’s online catalog. Not only will you have the ability to log your child’s reading, but you’ll find great reading recommendations with links back to the library’s catalog for borrowing purposes or placing holds.
How do we celebrate my child’s achievements?
The focus of this program is to begin building the foundation your child will need to become a successful reader in school. We also like to emphasize family togetherness as your child grows their reading skills with you. Because of this, we suggest that you celebrate each milestone throughout the program (reaching 100 books read, 200 books read, 300 books read, etc.) in a way that is appropriate for your family. Some suggestions include:
- Allowing your child to play with special stickers.
- Making your child’s favorite meal for dinner.
- Going out for ice cream during the summer, or sledding in the winter.
- Packing a picnic lunch for the park.
Choose any kind of reward that will make the moment special for your family! Please don’t wait for large events at the library to celebrate. Celebrate as often as you would like!
Where can I find more book suggestions?
Your library is here to help! In addition to using the online service Beanstack, ask the staff for suggestions when you’re looking for new things to read. We’ll help you tailor your choices to your child’s current interests and reading ability. You can also help yourself to one of the reading lists provided in the 1000 Books display at the library.
We’re having a tough time getting started.
Do you have any tips to make reading with my child a little bit easier?
There are a variety of things to keep in mind when reading with a young child, especially if it’s your first time doing so. The following tips might help you out:
- Snuggle with your baby. The connection is good for both of you and helps make your baby feel safe.
- Be mindful of their attention span. Don’t stress—it’s ok if you have to come back to a book later.
- Select books that are child-friendly. These are most often called board books. Their little hands aren’t so careful yet, and destruction of books will happen!
- Allow your child to touch or play with the book—even if that means the book isn’t handled quite like you’d like it to be.
- Involve play by gently bouncing or physically moving your child along with the story. This helps keep young children interested in the story.
- Keep books visible at home. Make sure they are as easy to reach as their toys.
Thank you for taking an interest in your child’s learning!
Contact the library @ 315-785-7709 with questions or concerns. We’re always happy to help!
