United Way and Rockford IceHogs Team Up for Literacy, Special Game Night December 14
United Way of Rock River Valley and the Rockford IceHogs are thrilled to announce a new partnership that will culminate in a special United for Literacy Night at the IceHogs […]
Read MoreBridging Literacy and Nature: A Summer of Learning at Severson Dells
By: Andrea Wallace NobleSeverson Dells Nature Center, Education Programs Manager At Severson Dells Nature Center, the heart of our mission is to connect people with nature. This summer, we were […]
Read MoreDolly Parton, the YWCA and United Way Mash Up to Get Kids to Read!
Early literacy is crucial for a child’s future academic success and lifelong learning. Exposure to reading from an early age prepares children for school by developing essential skills and knowledge.
Read MoreAge-Specific Reading Tips: 2 To 3 Years Old
Ask questions! Ask your child simple questions about the book.Examples: What was your favorite part of the book? Where did Corduroy go when he explored the store? Notice letters! Point […]
Read MoreRepeating Stories (And Why it’s Actually a Good Thing)
Many parents find themselves reading the same book repeatedly and might wonder why. Some even worry that sticking with “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” for the umpteenth […]
Read MoreHow to Set Effective Reading Goals with Your Child: A Parent’s Guide
Reading with your child is more than just a bedtime routine—it’s a chance to foster a love of books, build language skills, and create lasting memories. Setting reading goals can […]
Read MoreDiscover the Power of Reading for Just 20 Minutes a Day
Think about how much you could change your child’s life by spending just 20 minutes reading with them daily. It might seem short, but those daily reading sessions can make […]
Read MoreThe Transformative Power of Reading 20 Minutes a Day with Your Child
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding a spare moment can feel like an uphill battle. Yet, carving out just 20 minutes a day to read with your […]
Read MoreBack-to-School Reading List: Books to Prepare Your Child for a New Year
Ease back-to-school jitters with these delightful read-aloud books! Explore titles like “How to Get Your Teacher Ready” and “The Day You Begin” to help your child feel excited and prepared for the new school year.
Read MoreSummer Learning for Young Children: Essential Strategies
Ensure your young child continues to learn and develop during summer. Explore effective strategies like reading together and promoting social interaction.
Read MoreThe Vital Role of Reading Fluency in Children’s Literacy
Reading fluency is the bridge connecting decoding skills to comprehension, paving the way for a rich and rewarding literary experience for children. Beyond simply recognizing words on a page, fluency […]
Read MoreBooks to Celebrate Juneteenth
Juneteenth (June 19) commemorates the announcement in Texas in 1865 of the abolition of slavery—two years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation—and honors the day Black Americans gained their […]
Read MoreThe Science of Play: How Child’s Play Shapes Literacy Skills
In the whimsical world of childhood, where imaginations run wild and adventures await around every corner, lies a profound secret: play is not just fun and games; it’s the foundation […]
Read MoreRockford Rivets and United Way Collaborate for Reading Program
The Rockford Rivets and United Way of Rock River Valley (UWRRV) today announced the launch of the Lil’ Rivets Reading Club, a first-of-its-kind community-focused reading program aimed at combating youth […]
Read MoreCore Four Ways to Help Your Child Read
The “Core Four” techniques provide parents with practical strategies to enhance their children’s reading experience. By employing these techniques, parents can make reading more enjoyable and foster greater engagement and […]
Read MoreEarly Literacy and Technology
Digital technology has become integral to our daily lives, influencing everything from entertainment and communication to education. When supporting early literacy skills, navigating how technology and digital content can enhance […]
Read MoreReading to Succeed is Literacy
The simplest definition of literacy is the ability to read and write. But in a larger sense, literacy means understanding or competency. Today, literacy is often used along with another […]
Read MoreUnlocking the Magic of Picture Books
As parents, we hold the keys to unlocking a world of wonder and imagination for our little ones. Picture books, those delightful treasures that blend stories with art, are the […]
Read MoreUnlocking the Power of Words: Building Vocabulary for Young Readers
Today, we delve into the fascinating world of vocabulary development and its crucial role in nurturing young minds. Why Is Vocabulary Important? Vocabulary is more than just knowing words; it’s […]
Read MoreWhy are Libraries so Special for Kids?
On April 6, we celebrate the magical world of libraries—the cozy nooks filled with stories, adventures, and dreams. Why are libraries so special? Let’s dive in: Remember, libraries aren’t just buildings; […]
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