As the 2011-12 Raising A Reader program year draws to a close, we would like to extend sincere gratitude to all of our volunteers. We appreciate all of the time, energy, and talents that volunteers offer in service of our students, teachers, and families.
Sharing books that are inclusive of LGBT families is an essential way to support the self-esteem of children in these families and also for teaching all children about the diversity of families
Poets, rejoice! April is National Poetry Month, a time designated to read and celebrate poetry of all kinds. Poetry for children is natural. Adults instinctively use poetry, in the form for nursery rhymes or lullabies, to teach children about literature, and books for small children are often written in rhythmic and rhyming language. This is…
Last year we highlighted six early skills based on Every Child Ready to Read. The program has been revised to include five easy to remember literacy skills. They are presented below with examples from I Love Bugs! by Emma Dodd- a recommended spring read. WHAT are these early literacy skills? WHY is this important? HOW…
Upcoming Black History Month Events at the Library Wednesday, February 15 Rockridge Branch Library, 5366 College Ave, Oakland African Stories on Film for Children - 4:00-5:00PM Visit the library and watch fables, songs, & stories from Africa on the big screen. Snacks will be served. All ages welcome; Best for 5- to 10-year-olds. Bayview Hunters…
Recommended Read Aloud Books Raising A Reader provides training for parents and educators on interactive read alouds and early literacy. This week we highlight some great books that can that serve as additional resources. Reading Grows by Ellen B. Senisi This photo essay depicts ways parents can interact with their child(ren) to grow their brains and learn…
New Program Coordinator We are excited to introduce you to Lindsay Zika, Raising A Reader’s new Program Coordinator in Alameda County. Lindsay brings to our program a strong background in education and a deep connection to our community. An Oakland native, Lindsay has spent the last several years teaching in Mexico City. She’s thrilled to…
Staff Announcement Raising A Reader would like to acknowledge a long time staff member and tremendous member of our team as she moves forward in her career. Lynne Maes, who has been with Raising a Reader for close to four years and served as Director of Programs since January 2011 is leaving Raising A Reader…
Apps for Kids Mobile apps represent a new, and often inexpensive, resource now available to parents, educators and others who support children in the mastery of early literacy skills. There is a lot out there to choose from. How does one decide which apps are worth the download? The following recommendations were posted to the…
Partners in Progress Over the last 10 years, research on early brain development has consistently told us that the first 5 years of a child’s life are central to shaping their later success in school and beyond. Investment in early learning can be the key to helping many families of low income break the cycle…