The Children's Book Bank
These are the three most important things you can do for your kids to get them reading.
Read to your child. Every day.
Have lots of books in your home.
Let your child see you reading.
(With thanks to Joyce Grant at Getting Kids Reading)
There are dozens of wonderful blogs and websites that can help you learn about the world of children's literature. I've included some links in Finding Good Books. But we all know that books are expensive. Thank goodness for school fairs, garage sales and hand-me downs. Hurray too, for the children's book sections in Value Village, Goodwill and second hand bookstores. Regular visits to the wonderful public library system can also help you fill your home with books.
An invitation to borrow books from this Danish Children’s Library!
TD Bank and the Canadian Children's Book Centre have a yearly Book Giveaway. Every year, each child in grade 1 across the country receives a book to bring home and keep. The books are carefully chosen, with Canadian authors and illustrators and are published in both English and French.
And then, here in Toronto, there is the Children's Book Bank - a registered charity that collects, recycles and distributes free books to children who need them.
It feels like a beautiful cross between a children's bookstore and a library set in an old Victorian house in downtown Toronto (350 Berkeley Street). Children are welcome to visit, to browse and read, to ask for suggestions and then to choose a book to take home and keep. There are no limits on how many times a child may visit. The Children’s Book Bank focuses on children ages 2-12, and in addition to providing books, they offer literacy support and programming.
A book to take home!
Their website has comprehensive information on how to donate books or even organize a book drive. Their blog also provides updates about special events.
Does your child have very few books? Then do plan a visit. Or perhaps your child is finished with a book? Encourage them to make a donation. What a wonderful way to pass on the love of reading and the gift of literacy!
