African-American History Month Book List

Join CLI in celebrating African American History Month with inspiring, honest nonfiction picture book read alouds.  Then check out our selection of fiction titles to see some of our favorite African American characters in children’s literature. 

The Read – January 2020

CLI’s quarterly e-newsletter provides updates on CLI’s work with students and educators, inspiring stories from Literacy Champions in the communities they serve, and book recommendations to promote early literacy in school and at home.

Holiday Book Collection

We believe high-quality books are an integral part of early literacy education. With the holidays around the corner, winter break offers a great opportunity to spend extra time with your kids reading amazing books. Whether you are shopping for a gift, or cozying up together for the holiday season, check out our Holiday Book Guide collection.

The Read – November 2019

CLI’s quarterly e-newsletter provides updates on CLI’s work with students and educators, inspiring stories from Literacy Champions in the communities they serve, and book recommendations to promote early literacy in school and at home.

Team Spotlight – Francesca Cerabino

Today, our Team Spotlight series highlights our Philadelphia Regional Manager, Francesca Cerabino. Francesca works every day to make a difference in the lives of teachers and students across the region. We sat down with Francesca to learn more about her experience at CLI and what motivates her.

CLI Among Top i3 Evaluations

Children’s Literacy Initiative is proud to announce that a new report from the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) includes CLI among projects that have positive impacts on teacher practice and student outcomes. The report confirmed that CLI’s Investing in Innovation (i3) Validation intervention met the short-term and long-term goals of i3, including conducting a strong evaluation that produced high-quality data …

Books We’re Excited About!

Each year when the American Library Association’s Youth Media Awards are announced, I see a glimpse of CLI’s future. Though a book does not have to win an award to be chosen for a CLI collection, we do love to include winners and honor books that will inspire children and teachers with their beautiful writing and illustrations, their diversity, and …

Holiday Book Collection

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 opportunity to spend extra time with your kids reading amazing books. Whether you …

Are You a Writer?

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 down and introduced myself and asked what she was working on.  She …

Teachers at Play

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 play of children. As an idea is expressed, show that you hear …