Children deserve to see a wide range of families, cultures and experiences reflected in the books they read—and to discover stories that open the door to conversation, connection and learning. Raising a Reader’s Native collections feature books by Native authors and illustrators, as well as stories about Native children and experiences. Designed for children in PreK–2, the collections can support classroom libraries, family literacy, shared ...
Every child deserves the opportunity to discover the joy of reading and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Making this possible takes meaningful partnerships with organizations that share our commitment to supporting children and families. Through our partnership with the CenterPoint Energy Foundation, we’re expanding access to books and early literacy resources in Greater Minnesota, helping more families build reading ...
Recent headlines have renewed attention to a troubling trend. Boys continue to lag behind girls in reading achievement throughout their school years. From governors highlighting literacy gaps to national research examining long-term educational outcomes, the message is clear. If we want to improve literacy for all children, we must better meet the needs of boys. At Raising a Reader, we believe the path to reading success ...
By Michelle Torgerson, President and CEO, Raising a Reader Through the Smart Start Network and Raising a Reader’s 33 North Carolina Affiliates, communities across the state are helping families build joyful shared reading routines. Together, they are strengthening caregiver-child relationships, expanding access to books, and laying the early literacy foundation every child needs to thrive. At a time when communities (and states) across the country are looking ...
Every child deserves the opportunity to discover the joy of reading and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Making this possible takes meaningful partnerships with organizations that share our commitment to supporting children and families. Through our partnership with the CenterPoint Energy Foundation, we’re expanding access to books and early literacy resources in Greater Minnesota, helping more families build reading ...
By Michelle Torgerson, President and CEO, Raising a Reader I grew up in the Twin Cities. Minnesota is home for me. The schools, libraries, and community organizations across Minneapolis and St. Paul helped shape who I am today. Like many Minnesotans, I was raised with a deep respect for education, a commitment to showing up for my community, and an ...
At Raising a Reader, promoting early literacy and STEM education through diverse and inclusive literature is a critical part of our work. Our recent webinar, “Advancing Early STEM Learning with Diverse Books,” and in partnership with the Diverse Books for All Coalition, offered valuable insights and practical strategies for integrating diverse books into early STEM learning. Here, we share ...
By Michelle Torgerson, President and CEO, Raising a Reader Can we talk about Bruno?! Is Encanto’s soundtrack playing on loop at your house? It is at mine, and we almost have all the songs memorized! The movie tells the story of the Madrigal family as they navigate their special powers within their community. So many people—young and old—are feeling seen ...
Children deserve to see a wide range of families, cultures and experiences reflected in the books they read—and to discover stories that open the door to conversation, connection and learning. Raising a Reader’s Native collections feature books by Native authors and illustrators, as well as stories about Native children and experiences. Designed for children in PreK–2, the collections can support classroom libraries, family literacy, shared ...
As we continue to celebrate Raising a Reader’s 25th anniversary, we find ourselves more committed than ever to understanding the incredible potential of early childhood. Advancements in brain science have shed light on the remarkable growth and development that occur in the first few years of life, underscoring the importance of our mission to support early literacy and family engagement. ...