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

Toddler Storytime (Ages 2 & up)

Tuesday Mar 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am South Lansing Stories, songs and activities for toddlers and their caregivers.  Read More

Movers & Readers Playtime (Ages up to 3)

Tuesday Mar 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am Holt-Delhi Lively stories and activities for young children and their caregivers.  Read More
All Storytimes

Staff Picks

Katie S. Recommends

Wild Peace
I enjoyed reading this beautiful lilting story about finding renewed peace and joy in nature and getting outside. I would recommend it for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
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Thais R. Recommends

Blueberries for Sal
I recently re-read this gently suspenseful classic picture book of blueberry picking and an unexpected encounter. McCloskey's masterful storytelling is perfect for family read-along. 
Read More
More Picks for Kids