Family Resources
Dolly Parton Imagination Library Register children to receive a free book in the mail until age 5 (some location restrictions)
Free Little Libraries Find locations for free “take a book, return a book” book exchange boxes near you
Love for Learning Tips for parents to build literacy skills in their children based on Literacy Essentials
MI Learning Channel A statewide project providing children in grades Pre-K–3rd Grade free high-quality distance learning content through a television station, streaming service, and website with on-demand materials.
Reading Rockets National literacy initiative offering information and resources on how young kids learn to read, why so many struggle, and how caring adults can help
PBS Kids Free educational games, apps and entertainment
PBS Kids for Parents Tips and information about child development, early learning and developing children’s literacy skills
Simply Read with Me Research based tips and strategies to help parents grow readers Spelling Stages Shows how writing skills develop and tips for each stage of development
TALK A free texting service that sends easy learning activity ideas and library event notifications to caregivers of infants and preschoolers. Text “TALK” to 75547 to sign up
Talking is Teaching National literacy campaign that empowers parents to boost their children’s early brain and vocabulary development through simple, everyday actions
Upper Peninsula Great Start to Quality Resource Center’s Lending Library A lending library with more than 500 resources available to families of young children, child care providers, home visiting programs, and early childhood educators throughout the U.P.. There is no cost to borrow! Learning Bins are available to check out for up to one month and may be dropped off directly to you. Topics include Sign Language, Math and Science, Social-Emotional, Native American Culture, Diversity and Inclusion, and much more! Learn how to use the UPGSQ Lending Library here or contact Janice Menard to get started: janicemenard@4cofup.org
Educational Apps
We live in an age of technology.While it is tempting to hand a device to your child, remember time spent talking, reading and singing with your child is essential to their development. Personal connection builds a child’s brain as well as important literacy skills. No app can replace your lap! The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages media use by children younger than 2 and recommends limiting older children's screen time to no more than one or two hours a day. Research shows that too much screen time can impact their ability to focus, develop social-emotional skills, learn to self-regulate and affect their overall development. When looking for educational apps it is important that they hold real educational value. This article can help you determine what might be appropriate for your child. Research-Backed Guide to Educational Apps for Children
Best rated educational apps
- Reading Rockets-a national literacy initiative offering information and resources on how young kids learn to read
- ABC Mouse-a subscription-based digital education program for children ages 2–8 years
- Quick Math- promotes development of mental strategies for addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and mixed operations. (Apple store)
- Duolingo-a gamified language learning app
- Science 360 - free website and mobile app that is sponsored by the national science foundation providing engaging science and engineering images, videos, and news