Reading & Writing

Windows and Mirrors: A Framework for Inclusive Curriculum

Windows offer new views, while mirrors offer reflections. This metaphor is the heart of the Windows and Mirrors learning framework, which recognizes the importance of both perspectives. When planning lessons or choosing books for your classroom library, it’s important to include stories that both reflect the experiences of your students

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kindergarten children playing with toys

How to Prepare Your Child for Kindergarten

Starting kindergarten can feel overwhelming to both children and their families. You can help your child through the transition by focusing on early learning skills and helping them know what to expect before the first day of class. Here are some tips to help your child get ready for many

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Can You Complete These 48 Summer Reading Challenges?

With all the exciting activities available during the summer, getting kids to read can be a struggle. But if you can find new ways to boost their motivation, your children will have fun reading while school’s out—and keep their literacy skills sharp. Learn more below about why it matters to

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How Young Is Too Young to Learn to Read?

The key to lasting success in school is teaching academic skills as soon as a child is ready to learn. But how do we know when they’re ready? Is it ever too early to instill a love of reading? When Do Children Learn to Read? While most children begin reading

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A group of students studying in the library.

How to Find Free Books for Your School or Classroom Library

Building a school or classroom library can be difficult, especially if your school’s funding is low. Before you spend your own money on books, look into organizations that provide teachers with free classroom books. Many of these programs are open specifically to educators from schools with a demonstrated need to

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8 Places to Find Free Books for Kids

It’s fun to read as a family, and reading with your children is important for their development, but finding books that are just right for your child can be a challenge. Luckily, you can find a variety of free children’s books if you know where to look! In addition to

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Ways to Celebrate International Children’s Book Day in the Classroom

Ready, set, read! Are you looking for a great event to encourage families and children to get involved with reading? Then get ready for International Children’s Book Day (ICBD), held on April 2, the birthday of classic children’s book author Hans Christian Andersen. This worldwide celebration aims to promote literacy

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Shot of a group of elementary school kids and their teacher lying down while working in the library

11 Tips and Book Recommendations for Encouraging Reluctant Readers

Sometimes it can feel like pulling teeth trying to teach reluctant readers to develop their literacy skills. The key to teaching these children is, as with many academic subjects, to inspire a love of learning and get their families involved in their literacy development. Read on to discover strategies for

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Shot of a group of elementary school kids and their teacher lying down while working in the library

24 of the Best Children’s Books by Age

Knowing a book’s recommended grade level can help you find books that best fit children where they are in their literacy development. Not all children in a classroom will read at the same level. But suggested grade levels can help you find books that will strengthen specific reading skills. Then,

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20 Creative Writing Activities for Elementary Students

Did you know that November is National Novel Writing Month? While your young learners are probably not ready to write an entire book, this month is a great time to practice creative writing skills with your students. Not only can creative writing be helpful for teaching vocabulary and sentence structure,

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