Grow A Reader

The Kenosha Public Library (KPL) hosts a variety of opportunities for all ages to get involved in the community at both their Southern, Northern, and Simmons locations. With Kenosha county having over 10 thousand children under 5 years, it’s a great place for children and families to be entertained and learn while they grow.     

Week of the Young Child recently took place from April 16th through the 20th, and KPL has taken initiative by recognizing the need for early childhood programs. For the ages of 0-5, KPL encourages parents to get ahead with their children in reading before they enter kindergarten. To do this, they have the “Grow a Reader” tree. To participate in this, one can stop into the library and pick up a reading record from any of the locations and record the books one reads with their child. For every 100 books, a parent can stop in, turn in the list of books, and receive their leaf. They set the goal for 1000 books before Kindergarten so students are prepared and ready to attend school early on. 

From the Southwest library, children can experience a variety of developmental books and toys. Some include puppets, pop-up books, large motor toys, science kits, sensory kits, dramatic play sets, and much more. These items can be checked out and reserved from the library as well. These developmental objects will help kids later on as they’re maturing and growing. Starting young with interactive toys and books fuels creativity and helps strengthen their brain.

KPL also hosts early literacy pads and a preschool story time for ages 3 to 5. There’s toddler storytime for 1 to 2 year olds and infant storytime 0 to 12 months. Getting your child accustomed to reading at a young age promotes healthy learning and growth as they go into elementary school. 

KPL has a variety of Early Childhood programs where children are able to come into the care centers. The early childhood program has a digital petting zoo for the children led by youth services staff and story time with the inclusion of math, science, or the arts. They also have the growing strong leaders initiative where they encourage children to read about 5 books a week in hopes of obtaining the 1000 books before kindergarten goal. Reading 1000 books before kindergarten will help a child in obtaining the knowledge and skills they need as they make their way through early education. 

How To Get Involved

• Get a library card! Get started here
• Sign up with your child for one of these classes
• Start reading early on with your child and participate in the library’s Growing a Reader program.
• Invite the Early Childhood programs provided by KPL to your local child care center 

Article written by Megan Maurer
Communications Intern
​Carthage College
​Published in the Kenosha News

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