Join the Library and CPS for a Fun-Filled, Online Family Literacy Night

Working to develop early childhood literacy is just another way of saying have fun with your child by reading, singing, playing, and more. Yes, really! All of these activities help your child get ready to read.

We’ve partnered with Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) for a virtual event filled with entertainment, storytime, literacy, and learning for pre-kindergarten through 3rd grade families. Join Family Literacy Night from 6:30-7:15 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22.

Register for free on our events page.  

A Family Storytime with CHPL Librarians 

The Power of One

What I am most excited for is the opportunity to read stories and play games and talk about literacy with parents,” said Tya Harlen, Children’s Librarian at the Madisonville Branch who is co-hosting the virtual event that will include a reading of The Power of One by Trudy Ludwig. 

“Literacy doesn't have to be intimidating or hard or scary. Literacy isn't even unfamiliar, it's usually things that parents are already doing. I'm so happy to be a part of the team that gets to help parents realize this. 

The fact of the matter is, according to data from Strive Partnerships, only 57.5 percent of students in Cincinnati’s urban core passed the Kindergarten Readiness Assessment and only 60.1 percent passed the third-grade reading exams. When parents, caregivers, educators, and community members prioritize early childhood literacy, we can start to see better outcomes.  

Family Literacy Night is an important program because literacy is critical to school success,” said Walnut Hills Branch Children’s Librarian and event co-host Sam Lumetta. Schools and libraries are united in building these skills and supporting families. I'm so excited to be partnering with Cincinnati Public Schools in a new way for the benefit of the community's youth.”  

Preview These Tips for Early Literacy

Eager to learn more before the program? CPS ELA K - 6 Instructional Coach Elizabeth Kaye offers the following ways to promote literacy with your child every day.

  • Form a close relationship with your child. Make sure your child feels loved and respected, and also like they can have fun with you.  
  • Participate in playtime: play dolls or toss a ball or some other favorite activity that will bring you closer to your child. You want to gain knowledge about your child's habits and emotions. 
  • Tell stories. 
  • During meals, have family members talk about their day.
  • Play rhyming gamesRhyming games build phonemic awareness. 
  • Bring reading and writing into everyday life. 
  • Have your child write thank-you notes or help you make shopping lists. 
  • Be attentive
  • When engaging with your child, only focus on your child  no phone zone!

Enjoy Family Literacy Night from 6:30-7:15 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22! For more family-friendly activities, please visit the events section of the Library's website.