A Project of the American Library Association
adopted by the Kingston Frontenac Public Library in 2010

Before children can learn to read, they must develop a range of early literacy skills. Learning begins the moment they are born, through language and play. By weaving five simple practices into your daily routine, you will not only prepare your child for reading later on, but you’ll enjoy hours of fun together too!

The Kingston Frontenac Public Library is proud to partner with our communities’ parents and caregivers to help raise young readers by providing free access to thousands of books and music recordings. As well, all of our programs for young children focus on developing pre-literacy skills, and use the five simple practices outlined here.

The Federation of Ontario Public Libraries (FOPL) has created an infographic, What Happens During Storytime at the Public Library, that summarizes the information found in its report, “Preschool Early Literacy Programs in Ontario Public Libraries”.

Talking

Children learn about language by listening to their parents talk and joining the conversation. Use new words, give your full attention to what they are saying, and ask questions to keep them talking!

Singing

Songs help children learn to listen, discover rhythm and rhyme, and slows down language so that they can hear different parts of words.

Reading

Reading together is the single most important activity you can do to help them get ready to read! They will learn how books and written language work, and they’ll increase their vocabulary. Deepen the experience by asking questions and involving them in telling the story.

Writing

Reading and writing go together! Once your child can grasp a thick crayon or marker, give him or her unlined paper and plenty of opportunities to draw and write.

Playing

Play is how children explore their world! It builds their imagination, their self-confidence, and their language skills. Playing to get every child ready to read; books with movement, props or puppets.