Birth to Five

Get your child off to a smart start with our board books, picture books and early literacy programs and events. As a child's first teacher, parents and caregivers are key to building reading readiness in ages birth to age 5.

  • It's never too early to read to your baby. Try rhymes like "Mary Had a Little Lamb," a birthday card, a cereal box, even your tweets. The sounds children hear are what matter.
  • Introduce simple pictures and storybooks as your baby grows. Shapes, colors and sounds will delight. Try picture books for songs that you can sing together.
  • Change your voice for different characters in a book. Help your child learn the characters through your voice.
  • As you read, move your finger to show how the words move across the page.
  • Point out people and objects on the page. Ask your child questions like "Where is the cat hiding?" before or after you read the page.
  • Read the same book over and over—it helps children feel secure.
  • Visit the library often and let children select their own books.
  • Get your child their own library card.
  • Make a special time for reading aloud—after dinner, before bed, anytime. Talk calmly and take your time. Let your child know this is important to you.
  • Let your children see you reading and talk about what you read. They want to imitate you.

New Children's Titles

 

Board Books for Babies

Bright, interactive board books are a great way to start reading to your child with. Choose from touch-and-feel, lift-the-flap, stories in rhyme and more. Browse our collection.

Story Time

Play time is learn time. Bring your child to a Story Time event to hear simple stories and play word games that teach pre-reading skills.

Storyville

Storyville is an interactive early literacy learning center designed for children ages birth to 5 and their caregivers. Plan your visit now.