What is Early Literacy?

The development of language and literacy begins at birth, with parents and caregivers serving as a child’s first teacher. We are here to support your family in this lifelong learning process!
Early literacy is, very simply, what children know about reading or writing before they can actually read and write.
When children have learned early literacy skills before they enter kindergarten, they are at a distinct advantage when learning to read.
Build Skills at the FFL
Early Literacy opportunities at the FFL include:
- Attend Storytimes & skills building programs for babies and up
- Check out our Born to Read (birth to age 2) and Ready to Read (ages 2 & up) kits
- Visit our play-to-learn spaces in the Children’s area
- Enroll your child in our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program.

1000 Books Before Kindergarten
Set a goal to read 1,000 books before your child starts school! Participants will receive a free tote bag, reading log, and board book.
To sign up email Kirsten at kpeirson@fflib.org.
Storytimes & Book Clubs
Did you know? The FFL offers several weekly storytimes and play-to-learn programs for babies, toddlers and pre-K kids! We also offer several monthly book clubs for school aged kids.
Check our Events Calendar to find a reading event that’s right for your child.
Practice at Home
Child development experts have identified five simple activities that can help get your child ready to read:
Online Early Literacy Resources
Check out these sites for ideas, apps, activities, & more!