Overview

Early Learning Tips for Parents

Research shows one-on-one interaction between parent and child is critical for early learning. You can help your child develop important literacy and pre-reading skills. Five simple practices that help your child get ready to read are: ReadingWritingTalking, Singing, and Playing. Attending storytime helps children develop imagination, comprehension and attention skills.  

Explore the 5 Practices

Preschool Learning Tools

Practicing preschool skills can be both educational and fun. Explore our online learning tools together.

Go to Preschool Learning Tools

StoryWalks

Not all reading happens on couches. Walk (and jump and run) and read at a CADL StoryWalk.

Learn More

Early Learning Calendar

Print a calendar with daily activities that prepare children for success in kindergarten.

Get the Calendar 

Raising Reader Backpacks

Backpacks filled with books, toys, music CDs and DVDs on a kid-friendly theme.

Browse the Backpacks

CADL Tales

Tune in for CADL Tales, a show that features CADL librarians reading stories and sharing activities.

Watch CADLtales

 

Raising Reader iPads

Check out the full list of educational apps that we provide on our in-branch iPads!

Learn More

Blog Posts

CADL youth librarians are your partner in developing your child's love of reading.

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Celebrate reading for fun at your local library!
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Discover titles by authors with deep Greater Lansing roots.
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Join us for our Summer Reading Challenge.
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Tom and Sherri join Mari to discuss children’s picks and March is Reading Month.
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Mari is joined at the mic by special guest Lynn Harper, Branch Head at CADL Dansville, to take a look back at the titles they're excited about.

All Raising Reader Blog Posts

Storytimes & Playtimes

Sprouting Storytime (Children)

Saturday Apr 27, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm Webberville Join us for a special garden-themed storytime starring our very own Webberville Garden Club! Read More

Family Storytime Series (Ages up to 6)

Monday Apr 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am Dansville Join us for stories, songs and activities that feature letters of the alphabet and early literacy skills. Participants are encouraged to stay after storytime for play and social time. Each week will feature a special theme and take & make craft. Read More
All Storytimes

Staff Picks

Tina G. Recommends

Jude Saves the World
Jude is a twelve year old nonbinary character. This is a beautiful book with amazing, brave characters who fiercely guard friendship as a safe space filled with unconditional love. I highly recommend...
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Nina I. Recommends

The Name of this Book is Secret
This is a series that is near and dear to my heart. If you like riddles, codes, and mystery, then this is the book for you! With equal parts detail and vagueness, this book will keep you reading until...
Read More
More Picks for Kids