Learning to read is exciting. It’s also messy. Letters get mixed up.Words get guessed.Sounds don’t always blend smoothly. And that’s not a problem. It’s part of the process. Mistakes are not signs that something is wrong — they are signs that something is growing. When we normalize mistakes in early reading, we don’t just build … Read more
Spring brings more than sunshine and longer days. It brings baseball season. And whether children are stepping up to bat for the first time or watching from the stands, sports offer one of the most powerful real-life lessons we can give them: You don’t have to be perfect to grow. In fact, growth requires mistakes. … Read more
When we think about helping young children learn, we often picture flashcards, worksheets, and structured lessons. But the real magic?It usually looks like crayons, costumes, cardboard castles, and made-up stories. What may seem like “just play” is actually some of the most powerful learning happening in a child’s brain. Creativity in early childhood isn’t extra … Read more
If your child—or student—groans when it’s time to read, you’re not alone. Many kids labeled as “reluctant readers” aren’t struggling with ability at all. They’re struggling with pressure. The good news? Encouraging a love of reading doesn’t require rigid programs, forced book reports, or nightly battles. In fact, the most effective strategies are often the gentlest … Read more
Confidence is one of the most important skills a child can develop—and it plays a huge role in learning to read. For children ages 4–8, confidence often determines whether reading feels exciting or overwhelming. That’s where picture books come in. Picture books aren’t just tools for learning letters and sounds. They help children see themselves … Read more
I am celebrating Little Free Library Week by sharing my books. Copies of Gertie Saves the Day and Two Wins for Wiley were added to my local Little Free Library. I sign each copy and add a note. Sometimes, I get an email from a child who has just read my book. It is a … Read more
Drop Everything And Read Day is a special reading celebration day that was designed to encourage families to make reading together each day a family priority and habit. Families are encouraged to read and enjoy books together for at least 30 minutes. April 12 is also the birthday of the children’s author Beverly Cleary. She received many letters from students who enjoyed D.E.A.R. time at their school. … Read more
Are you celebrating Jolabokaflod this year? Jolabokaflod, also known as the “Christmas Book Flood, ” is a unique tradition in Iceland that is celebrated on Christmas Eve. This tradition began during World War II, an era marked by economic constraints and strict currency restrictions across Europe. In Iceland, these conditions and the relative leniency on paper … Read more
Books make the best gifts for children and books bring us together. Think back to when you were a child. What are some of your memories of gifts you received? I think we are all likely to remember the big gifts, such as your first bike, special doll, or game. You are also likely to … Read more
Children’s Book Week is an annual celebration of children’s books and reading. Since 1919, it is the longest-running national literacy initiative in the country. Every year, young people across the country participate by attending events at schools, libraries, bookstores, celebrating at home and engaging with authors online and in person. The 2024 Children’s Book Week … Read more
