GREENFIELD — A child’s love of reading can begin long before they recognize their first letters.
At the Greenfield Public Library, a literacy initiative called “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” is encouraging families to make books a part of their everyday routines.
The library will host a celebration of the program on Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m. to noon, welcoming families with children up to 5 years old for a morning of reading, music and activities. The event will recognize children who have reached reading milestones while also giving new families a chance to learn about and participate in the initiative.
Although the goal of reading 1,000 books might initially sound daunting, Children’s Librarian Ellen Lavoie emphasized that the program is designed to be a long-term experience rather than a race to reach a particular number.
“It’s meant to take years,” Lavoie explained. “It’s really just to encourage reading books with your child.”
The program, which is offered through participating libraries beyond Greenfield, encourages families to introduce reading during the first five years of a child’s life. According to Lavoie, early childhood is an important period for language development, and regularly sharing books can introduce children to vocabulary and forms of communication they might not otherwise encounter in everyday conversation.
Families can enroll through the Greenfield Public Library’s website at greenfieldpubliclibrary.org or by visiting the Children’s Room and speaking with a staff member. Upon registering, participants receive a starter pack to help track their reading, a free book bag and a book for their child. Families are also welcome to use their own methods of tracking their reading.
As children progress, the library offers incentives at three milestones: 100, 500 and 1,000 books. Participants receive prizes such as books, toys and educational materials. Children who reach the 500- and 1,000-book milestones can also have their photographs displayed on the library’s wall of fame, if their families choose. Those who complete the “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” program will receive a certificate.
The initiative has already attracted considerable interest in advance of Saturday’s celebration. Lavoie said more than 200 people have signed up.
Although the program previously existed at the library’s former building, it temporarily went dormant following staff transitions and the move to the new location at 412 Main St. The Friends of the Greenfield Public Library originally helped establish the initiative, which was relaunched with a celebration last year.
Lavoie advises families beginning the program that there is no single approach to reading with young children. The library offers suggested reading lists, but every book counts, even if a family chooses to read the same story repeatedly.
With infants, high-contrast books featuring black-and-white images can provide visual stimulation while their eyesight develops. As children grow, caregivers can introduce tactile books, board books and stories featuring interactive elements such as flaps, mirrors and different textures.
Reading also does not necessarily mean sitting down and reading every word on a page. Lavoie encourages caregivers to point out illustrations, make animal sounds, sing stories or connect something in a book to the world around them.
“Don’t be afraid to be goofy but give it your own style,” she said.
Just as importantly, Lavoie encourages caregivers not to turn reading into an obligation. If a child becomes upset or loses interest, there is no need to finish the book. Finding a moment when children are comfortable and receptive is more valuable than completing a particular number of pages.
“I don’t want it to put pressure on anyone,” Lavoie said. “It should be a fun program.”
Saturday’s celebration will reflect that community-oriented approach. Families can participate in a group read-aloud at 10:15 a.m., followed by a musical performance by Tom & Laurie, who incorporate both English and Spanish into their songs, at 10:30 a.m. There will be snacks, a play area and a recycling truck for children to explore.
“We’re just getting started,” Lavoie said when stating that the goal of “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” extends beyond reaching a milestone — it’s about establishing an early relationship with books that kids can carry with them.
