Scientific studies are beginning to confirm what we have always suspected about Imagination Library: Participating children perform better on kindergarten assessments, and the earlier they’re enrolled – the longer they’ve received books – the better.
News
Language gap starts in infancy, study finds
The quality and quantity of verbal interactions between parent and baby show up even earlier than previously thought, according to a new Stanford study. Low-income children show achievement gaps in language development as early as 18 months. Learn more »
Sane voices on a hot topic: digital media and early learning
Television is still a huge part of children’s daily lives. And now digital media poses all sorts of new questions and challenges. How to make sense of it all? A science roundtable organized by the New America Foundation offers great advice on managing digital media for young children. Answers here.
New kindergarten page
There is so much research, data, and advice specifically on the subject of kindergarten readiness that we have organized a new page for easy use. Some of the information is pertinent to parents and families, some relates more to policy and data. We hope you find it helpful.
Build baby brain at grocery store
Dreading a trip to the grocery store with a small child? It’s actually a great opportunity to build a baby brain. 7 Ways to Build Your Baby’s Brain at the Grocery Store | The Urban Child Institute. Check out our Babies on Track for a video – and really cute companion baby books – for Read More
Oasis of calm
The Parents’ Pit Stop was a huge success at last month’s Tanana Valley State Fair in Fairbanks, serving nearly 2,000 people. Parents with infants and toddlers could relax, recharge, and receive local information on family resources and health. Parents’ Pit Stop was organized by the Fairbanks Breastfeeding Coalition in collaboration with Fairbanks Families.
We have wonderful friends
Several businesses and organizations recently donated to our work, helping Alaska’s children become Ready for School. We hope you’ll thank them, too: Northrim Bank, Alaska State Literacy Association, and, for the creation of StoryTRACKS: Anchorage Park Foundation, Blaines Art, Eagle Enterprises, REI, Stake Shop, and Barnes & Noble.
Is your family ready for kindergarten?
We’ve focused a lot on a child’s abilities and skills for kindergarten. What about the family? A kindergarten-ready family has routines to insure good attendance. They have set ground rules explaining the differences between acceptable home behavior and acceptable public behavior. Is your family kindergarten-ready?
Check out StoryTRACKS for your event
Individuals and groups can check out a StoryTRACKS set for events, block parties, park activities, etc. Borrowing them is free but there are requirements. Find out more about these “picture books on parade.” It’s a great way for families to combine reading together, physical activity, and Alaska’s beautiful outdoors.
Looking ahead to kindergarten
If your child is entering school this fall and you’re wondering, will he be ready? Are there ways we can prepare her for success? Check out this lively brochure, “I am ready!,” from the Alaska Dept. of Education & Early Development or find more ideas on our website.