As a children’s book nerd, a writer, and a former teacher, I feel a special fondness for books about writing, reading, and books. And I know I am not alone! For years, teachers have been using books like Thank You, Mr. Falker by Patricia Polacco, Click Clack Moo…
We believe high-quality books are an integral part of early literacy education. Offering children a balance of fiction and nonfiction reading experiences can provide not only gorgeous illustrations and compelling text, but also an opportunity to learn! With the holidays around the corner, winter break offers a great…
I recently visited a second grade classroom to sit in on their Writing Workshop. After the mini-lesson, the children settled into their writing spots and I took the opportunity to hone my conferring skills. I found Crystal nestled on a giant pillow in the library area. I sat…
There’s something really special about jumping into the imaginary world of the children in your care. But finding the balance between supporting children’s play while giving them ownership of their experiences can be tricky. Try this strategy called “Yes, and…” as one method for jumping into the imaginary…
School districts are critical partners for Children’s Literacy Initiative, as demonstrated in the successful launch of our Investing in Innovation (i3) Scale-up project in four urban school districts, including Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) in Florida, during the 2016-2017 school year. BCPS Superintendent of Schools Robert W. Runcie,…
We spoke with Leah Eller, a Kindergarten teacher at Green Valley Elementary in Denver, CO about her experience with CLI and why our partnership with teachers is so important. How has Children’s Literacy Initiative training impacted your early literacy instruction? The training that I have received from Children’s Literacy Initiative…
Ingrid is a proud 2nd grader who loves to read. When asked to name her favorite book, she will tell you that she has many, but her most favorite book right now is The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds. The Dot, part of the Children’s Literacy Initiative Spanish…
Learning to read and write is a big task! Luckily, our children enter preschool and kindergarten already equipped with one of the most powerful teaching tools – their names! Children’s names are one the most important words in their lives. The first letters they learn are the letters…
Teachers often ask us to recommend books that promote a positive classroom culture. Below are some wonderful read alouds that can help children learn to take care of themselves, take care of others, and take care of their classroom. Children’s Literacy Initiative calls this the Power of Three….
KEARNY, New Jersey (September 27, 2017) – Children’s Literacy Initiative (CLI), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization partnering with educators to improve instruction so more children read proficiently by 3rd grade, was recently awarded a $15,000 Major Grant from The Provident Bank Foundation to support CLI’s 2017-2018 Reading Workshop Instruction…