We are very excited to offer an entirely online way to participate in 1000 Books Before Kindergarten. While the pandemic has changed many things, it hasn’t changed the importance—and joy—of reading to babies, toddlers, and children before they enter kindergarten. Also unchanged is the abundance of books at the Northbrook Public Library for these ages. You can now register for and log your reading entirely online using our READsquared website or app. The READsquared app is available at the App Store and Google Play.
A Musical Makeover
Another new aspect of the program provides a way for families to celebrate each milestone with a musical treat! In making the program available online, we wanted to find a way for families to celebrate at home, and music was the perfect answer. Music is an important foundation of early literacy, and it is loved and appreciated equally by babies and five-year-olds.
We worked with professional musicians from various traditions around the Chicago area to create new and interesting versions of songs you likely know and love. So every time you log 100 books for your little one, you will receive a music video straight from the living rooms, basements, and backyards of professional musicians. Play it on your phone or computer and sing and move along with your little one.
Ever hear "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" performed as a violin-trumpet duet or "Baby Shark" on French horn, trumpet, trombone, and tuba?
At the halfway point (500 books) and the finish, the emails will also include instructions on how to pick up a mini bookbag and free board book through contactless curbside pick-up.
Complete the program and you will have a little music library just for your child!
About 1000 Books Before Kindergarten
The goal of the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program is to help your child establish strong literacy skills at an early age, with the library on call to you every step of the way. The concept is simple: read at least one book to your child daily and keep track of the progress on our fun tally cards.
To learn more, enroll, or log your reading, please visit www.northbrook.info/1000-books.
