What Is It?
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten is a self-guided, ongoing early literacy program designed to encourage reading to babies and toddlers.
Studies have shown that families who start reading to their children at birth help strengthen their language skills and build vocabulary – two important tools for learning to read!
How Does It Work?
Reading 1,000 books before kindergarten is easier than you think! Any book read to your child counts, including books from storytime at the library or with the class in nursery school, and even books your child has read before. Try getting started by reading one book to your child each night, and watch the titles add up!
How Do We Get Started?
Sign up in person at the Rockville Centre Public Library, and take home your first reading log. You can also download and print your own here.
Every time a book is read to your child, whether by you or someone else, write the title on your log.
When you reach 100 books, bring in your reading log to receive a small prize for your child. Do this for every 100 books you read. When you reach 1,000 books, your child will receive a book prize and a special certificate of completion!
What Should We Read?
At RVCPL, we have great books children love, from timeless classics to popular bestsellers. Below is a selection of some of our all-time favorites. Need more suggestions? Come speak to one of our librarians – we are always happy to help you!
- The Cow Loves Cookies by Karma Wilson
- Dog’s Colorful Day by Emma Dodd
- Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems
- Don’t Push the Button! by Bill Cotter
- Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae
- I’m Not Cute! by Jonathan Allen
- Is Everyone Ready for Fun? by Jan Thomas
- Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen
- Little Owl Lost by Chris Haughton
- Old Bear by Kevin Henkes
- The Squeaky Door by Margaret MacDonald
- Spot series by Eric Hill
- The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle